Reference News Network, June 30 - According to the German news TV channel website on June 28, last week the Ukrainian parliament passed the dual nationality law. Given that many Ukrainian refugees who have fled the country will not return even after the war ends, the Ukrainian government must take measures to ensure these refugees maintain at least some connection with their homeland.
The war has greatly changed Ukraine, and the population crisis is becoming more severe. Previously, emigration, poverty, and a low birth rate had already led to a decrease in the country's population. According to official statistics, Ukraine's population decreased from nearly 52 million in 1992 to 41 million by 2021. Currently, it is estimated that only about 30 million people live in areas controlled by Ukraine.
Official statistics show that more than 4.3 million Ukrainians have obtained temporary protection in the EU, living in EU countries. Many of them will soon be eligible to apply for citizenship in EU countries.
Except for the first few months after the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Ukraine has not seen a large-scale refugee wave so far. However, since the tension in the Middle East escalated, Russia has once again intensified air strikes on the heartland of Ukraine, and there is no hope of a ceasefire on the front lines. Therefore, it is obvious that the population of Ukraine will continue to decrease.
The report said it is difficult to say how effective the dual nationality law will be in stabilizing Ukraine's population. Ukrainian-born men abroad are unlikely to apply for Ukrainian passports, as this would mean they would have to fulfill military service obligations.
Moreover, according to the new law, Ukrainians can only hold dual nationality with so-called "friendly countries". The Ukrainian government is compiling a list of "friendly countries". It is estimated that EU countries and countries that have imposed sanctions on Russia will be on the list.
The dual nationality law also simplifies the naturalization process for foreign soldiers who fight for Ukraine. Usually, foreigners must reside continuously in Ukraine for at least five years to qualify for a Ukrainian passport. For foreign soldiers, this period is now reduced to one year. However, naturalization means they cannot leave Ukraine freely. (Translated by Wang Qing)
Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7521631237790794280/
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