ŽIVOT UKRAJINSKÉ KOMUNITY PRIZMATEM ŽIVOTA OBČANSKÉ SPOLEČNOSTI V ČESKÉ REPUBLICE

Abstract

The research of Ukrainian life in the Czech Republic is most often related to migration labor processes and the problems connected with them. In different time intervals this was the issue, and this is the issue relevant to today’s accession of Ukrainians to the country. However, in recent years, besides the increase in number of labor migrants, the number of immigrants also grows who remain in the country forever integrating into Czech society in various spheres. Ukrainians are no longer only temporary migrant laborers in the Czech Republic. Over time they can identify themselves with the Ukrainian national minority and use the rights and opportunities provided by the law. It is likely that after the population census in 2021, Ukrainians will develop into one of the largest national minorities in the Czech Republic and will make themselves known as a united community. But in order to receive support from the Czech state for arranging various cultural, educational and other events Ukrainians need to have legally registered public associations. Although according to the 2011 Ukrainian census, Ukrainians are not the most numerous national minority, they are the largest group of migrants in the country and together they make up the most numerous group of foreigners. This leads to an increase in their integration and unity. The main role in this process is played by the organizations of civil society, in particular those working with Ukrainians. And as a rule, in their work they do not make any difference between long-settled Ukrainians and those who recently moved to the Czech Republic for permanent residence. The important role of non-governmental non-profit organizations that play a part in the integration of foreigners, is also pointed out in the Concept of integration of foreigners in the Czech Republic. Thus, primarily the activities of minority organizations become a way to involve these communities into public life. The conception of the presence of the Ukrainian diaspora in the Czech Republic in this study is supported by the conclusions obtained during open interviews with leaders of a number of public organizations of Ukrainians.