“Plural Citizenship: Challenge, Opportunity, and Humanity” – Andriy Prykhodko’s Commentary for Kyiv24

In the context of the active discussion of the draft law on multiple citizenship, lawyer Andriy Prykhodko shared with Kyiv24 his professional assessment and personal vision of an important initiative.

Citizenship as a value

“Today, a Ukrainian passport is not just a document. It is a symbol. A symbol of struggle, dignity, belonging to a nation that fights for its right to exist every day,” notes Andriy Prykhodko. “In this context, the desire of a part of society to be tough on those who support the aggressor state is emotionally understandable. But we must act within the law.”

“Citizenshiplessness” is a violation of the Constitution

The lawyer emphasizes: the idea of ​​depriving a person of citizenship without providing an alternative status contradicts the Constitution of Ukraine, international law, and basic human rights. “Deprivation of citizenship is not just a political step. It is the actual exclusion of a person from the legal field, leaving them without protection, without opportunities for a normal life. This approach jeopardizes the very idea of ​​a legal state,” explains Andriy Prykhodko.

Multiple citizenship — as a bridge with the diaspora

At the same time, Andriy Prykhodko supports the initiative on multiple citizenship as a promising and humane step: “We have millions of Ukrainians abroad — in Canada, the USA, Europe. Giving them the opportunity to remain in the Ukrainian legal field without requiring them to give up another passport is not only a gesture of respect, it is a policy of preserving the nation.”

The law has not yet been signed, but it is a landmark

The draft law has not yet entered into force, but the public discussion around it only emphasizes its importance.

The draft law has not yet entered into force, but the public discussion around it only emphasizes its importance.