The Potential of Religious Diplomacy for Ukraine: An Aspen Comms Lab Dialogue

On the morning of 28 February, the Aspen Institute Kyiv communications community gathered for another session of Aspen Comms Lab.

This time, the discussion focused on the potential of religious diplomacy to support Ukraine. Together with experts, communications professionals, and journalists, participants explored the role of faith-based diplomacy in the international arena and the opportunities created by the ministry of Cardinal Mykola Bychok—the only Ukrainian cardinal, the world’s youngest cardinal, and Bishop of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Eparchy of Saints Peter and Paul of Melbourne, serving Ukrainian Catholics in Australia, New Zealand, and Oceania.

The discussion centred on practical opportunities for international engagement through an upcoming documentary film about Cardinal Bychok. Together, participants developed key messages for different target audiences and outlined the strategic narrative that will underpin the film.

As is customary at Aspen Comms Lab, the group also reflected on the outcomes of the previous session. Nadiia Pototska, Head of Communications for Tetiana Berezhna and the Ministry of Culture of Ukraine, shared updates on communication challenges and the changes that have already been implemented within the Ministry.

We are grateful to all participants for their openness, thoughtful contributions, and commitment to dialogue.

Our sincere thanks go to Andrii Kulakov, Community Programme Coordinator at Aspen Institute Kyiv, for moderating the session, and to Alina Krugliak, Communications Director at Aspen Institute Kyiv, for coordinating the event.