Day of Dignity and Freedom
21.11.2017
Today Ukraine celebrates the Day of Dignity and Freedom.
The history of the Ukrainian state has dates that are filled with pain and suffering, but at the same time they are crucial for the further development of the country. Such events include the Revolution of Dignity 2014, during which the Ukrainian people were forced to defend their right to a free and independent life in the XXI century.
In 2014, millions of Ukrainians defended democratic values, human rights and freedoms, the national interests of our state and its European choice. The Director of the Educational and Educational Institute of History, International Relations and Socio-Political Sciences A.V. Bader told us about the significance of these events for the development of modern society on the air of the online radio “University Wave”.
- Anton Vasylyovych, November 13, 2014 the President issued a decree “On the celebration of the Day of Dignity and Freedom.” The reason for this decision was the events of the Orange Revolution and the Revolution of Dignity. Why, in your opinion, have these two events been combined?
In my opinion, these two events played a certain key role for the modern history of Ukraine. Experts are arguing now, that they have greatly influenced the further development of Ukraine, the transformation of the political system and the denial of the authoritarian regime.
- Were these changes for the better?
This is a rather difficult question, because any changes are related to certain decisions, problems and discontent. They say that the most terrible thing is to live in a period of change. This is what fell to our lot. While the direction of reforms in our country seems to me to be positive. These changes are difficult and contradictory and have many critics, because our political system is imperfect in many aspects. But all the same, there are transformations that have long been ripe in our society.
- Did you feel certain changes after the events of the revolution?
Of course, we saw the changes. Unfortunately, the Russian Federation does not want to see a European state at its borders. Therefore, the result of Euromaidan was influenced by Russian aggression, and we all suffered from this and had to change our place of residence. But on the other hand, this crisis situation pushed many people to the development and rethinking of their lives.
- In your opinion why this day has the name of “Dignity and Freedom”?
This is connected with the events of Euromaidan. The people of Ukraine demonstrated that they are not ready to tolerate the complete usurpation of power. The citizens came out and expressed their opinion. There can be controversy about the causes of events, but important is that millions of people came out and supported this process. So, the majority of the society is active and wants to ensure that the government works in the interests of the people.
- Now we pay much attention to such concepts as “dignity” and “freedom.” In your opinion what does “dignity” mean?
An answer to this question is unique for everyone. Perhaps recent events have shown that dignity is the right for the authorities to respect the opinion of the people. And that these were not just words, but also implemented in practice.
- How important is today the work with young people on national and patriotic upbringing based on the events of the Revolution of Dignity?
Of course, it is necessary to include in the educational process the study of the events of the Orange Revolution and the Revolution of Dignity. In particular, within the framework of courses on history and political science.
More detailed interview with the Director of the Educational and Research Institute of History, International Relations and Socio-Political Sciences can be found on the website of online-radio “University Wave”.
Oleg Chernysh, Press Center of LTSNU
