Throughout history the Ukrainian people have played a part in the development of the European family of nations, and we share the common commitments to democracy, personal liberties and the rule of law that make European civilisation so distinctive. However, we are realistic people here in Ukraine and realise that for many our country remains a mystery stuck forever in the shadows. This magazine is our way of demonstrating that we want to be closer to Europe and are ready to reaffi rm our place in the European family of nations.

Ukraine is a very young independent country, and so we understand why we remain relatively unknown or subject to ambiguities. After all, as a sovereign state the country is only sixteen years old. We have been through many difficult periods in our history and do not try to hide from the problems and contradictions which we are now encountering as we work to transform the country into a fully functioning European democracy. The European community of nations has played a major role in supporting our transition away from the totalitarian past towards a pluralistic democracy, and we are proud to be fi nally setting out along the well trodden path of the old European democracies. Here in Ukraine we have always been fascinated by the history and experiences of our European partners, and we hope you will take an interest in the historical changes occurring in our country today.

Yours truly,
Irina Gagarina
Project Director
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