By: Zuzana Zalanova, RWI Regional Director for Europe a.i.
RWI recently supported the special screening and panel discussion of The EUkrainian, Viktor Nordenskiöld’s compelling documentary following Ukraine’s Vice Prime Minister Olha Stefanishyna in her courageous fight for Ukraine’s EU accession and democracy. Hosted at Biografspegeln in Malmö, Sweden, the event featured an insightful conversation between the filmmaker and Zuzana Zalanova, RWI’s Regional Director for Europe, emphasizing the human dimension behind Ukraine’s EU integration journey.
Filmmaker Viktor Nordenskiöld reflected on the film’s core message:
“At its essence, the film addresses the struggle for democracy-whether we are genuinely prepared to defend it. This question is increasingly pertinent today. It’s about upholding a world order rooted in democratic principles amidst the rise of authoritarianism.”
Zuzana Zalanova, RWI Regional Director for Europe, highlighted the film’s resonance with RWI’s mission:
“The EU’s strength, both internally and externally, depends on reinforcing the values at its core. In times of war and democratic backsliding, upholding these principles is challenging but essential.”
RWI’s support for Ukraine’s EU accession and recovery extends beyond this screening. Our projects help strengthen legal reforms, human rights, and institutional capacity in Ukraine-ensuring Ukraine’s path to the EU is grounded in core European values: human dignity, democracy, equality, the rule of law, and human rights.
As The EUkrainian illustrates, EU integration is more than bureaucratic procedures – it is a profound commitment to safeguarding democracy and human rights amid war and uncertainty. RWI remains dedicated to standing with Ukraine and the European community to uphold these essential values. As one of the film’s powerful lines asks:
“Do we as EU believe that the rule of law and democracy are still worth fighting for? Imagine what it takes to work, fight and reform in these circumstances?”
For those who missed the screening, the documentary is streaming for free for those with access to SVT Play in Sweden until May 4, 2027 – a unique opportunity to witness the personal and political challenges Ukraine faces in its quest for EU membership through Olha Stefanishyna’s story.
To learn more about RWI’s work in Ukraine, please visit: https://rwi.lu.se/ukraine