Invited Lecturers

On 23 October 2024, within the framework of the discipline ‘International Organisations’ for 2nd year students of the Bachelor's degree programme in ‘Country Studies’, a lecture was given by Mr Shabliy Serhii Matviiovych, Head of the Council of Europe, Human Rights and Gender Coordination Department of the Diplomatic Mission of Ukraine. The lecture was devoted to the Human Rights Protection System within the Council of Europe.

On 28 October 2024, Serhii Shablii, Head of the Council of Europe, Human Rights and Gender Coordination Division of the Department of International Organisations, gave a lecture on ‘Ukraine in the activities of the Council of Europe’ for 2nd year students of the Master's degree programme in Diplomacy and International Cooperation.

The lecturer focused in detail on the activities of the Council of Europe in such aspects as the role of Ukraine in the activities of the Council of Europe, the negative impact of Russia on the effectiveness of the Council of Europe and the fact of Russia's exclusion from the Council of Europe. Also, Serhiy Shabliy gave specific examples from the activities of the European Court of Human Rights and other institutions of the Council of Europe. The students were very interested in the information, and asked many questions to the lecturer on various aspects.

On 24 October 2024, first-year master's students of the Diplomacy and International Cooperation programme attended an interesting and informative lecture on ‘Analytical Support of Foreign Policy Activities’ as part of the course ‘Public Administration and Foreign Policy Decision-Making’. The lecture was delivered by Andriy Karakuts, Advisor to the International Initiatives Division of the Political Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

During the lesson, students gained valuable applied knowledge on the organisation of analytical work both in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and in foreign diplomatic missions (FDI). Particular attention was paid to the preparation and writing of analytical documents, communication between central offices and foreign diplomatic missions, as well as the importance of networking with non-state actors and scenario planning.

Andrii Mykolaiovych generously shared his advice and professional guidance, emphasising the key competencies required for a successful career in international relations. The students actively participated, asked questions and received thorough answers.

We express our sincere gratitude to Mr Karakutz for his participation and useful knowledge, and invite everyone to the next lectures of the department!

On 26 May 2025, with the assistance of the Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service, a meeting was held with Andrii KARAKUTS, Head of the Analytical Support Division of the Political Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine. The lecture was held with the 1st year students of the Master's degree programme ‘Diplomacy and International Cooperation’ in the format of the discipline ‘Diplomatic Service and Law of Foreign Relations’ (Prof. Viktor MATVIENKO, Associate Professor Viacheslav Tsivatyi).

The topic of this lecture: ‘Analytical support of foreign policy activities’. Andrii Karakuts told the students that at the present stage, the diplomatic service of Ukraine is actively building an updated model of its activities and is actively working on the information, analytical and prognostic component in the context of the Russian-Ukrainian war. He drew attention to practical cases on these issues and the updating of the regulatory framework in the field of practical diplomacy. The career diplomat shared his own practical experience and answered numerous questions from the audience on the organisation of the work of the Analytical Support Unit of the Political Department of the MFA of Ukraine, as well as focused on the peculiarities of preparing and structuring analytical documents according to their classification and types. The discussion on important foreign policy and diplomatic topics for Ukraine ended with a round of applause and words of gratitude!

On 25 October 2024, a lecture by Mr. Yurii Mushka, Ambassador-at-Large of the Second Territorial Department, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to Slovakia in 2016-2022, graduate of the Institute of International Relations in 1991, was held for 2nd year students of the Master's degree programme in International Relations within the discipline ‘Multilateral Diplomacy and Mechanisms for Regulating Modern International Relations’.  

During the lecture, the lecturer focused on important aspects of international relations and state recognition. He gave practical examples from his work. He also focused on the demarcation of borders.

Yuriy also spoke about bilateral relations with Slovakia, Hungary, and Romania. He analysed the interstate debate over the Zmiinyi Peninsula. He focused on Ukrainian-Hungarian relations and Hungary's position in the international arena and its policy towards Ukraine. He also answered students' questions about the work of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the tasks of diplomats, and the functions they perform at the present stage.

On 28 October 2024, the Deputy Director of the Department - Head of Division 3 of the Territorial Department of the Consul General of Ukraine in Rio de Janeiro gave a lecture. Ambassador of Ukraine to Peru (2018-2020) Ihor Tumasov for the 3rd and 4th year students of the Bachelor's degree programme, speciality ‘Country Studies’ on the topic ‘Ukraine's relations with Latin America and the Caribbean: prospects and features, coincidence and differences of positions’.

The lecturer focused on the relations and peculiarities between Ukraine and the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean. The lecture was very informative and interesting and was accompanied by a presentation. The students were very interested and asked a lot of questions.

On 08 May 2025, with the assistance of the Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service, a meeting was held with the Deputy Director of the Department, Head of the Division of the Third Territorial Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Ihor Tumasov. The lecture was held with the 2nd year students of the Bachelor's degree programme ‘International Relations’ in the format of the discipline ‘Foreign Policy of Ukraine’. 

The topic of the lecture was: ‘Ukraine's role and place in modern international relations with North and South America’.  Ihor Yuriiovych told the students that international organisations as a form of international cooperation and multilateral diplomacy play an extremely important role at the present stage. He drew attention to the global level of Ukraine's capabilities, which have become extremely limited after it got rid of nuclear weapons and significantly reduced its military and economic potential.

On March 27, 2026, the Educational and Scientific Institute of International Relations of Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv hosted a lecture for 4th-year students of the "Country Studies" program featuring experienced diplomat Ihor TUMASOV, Deputy Director of the Department and Head of the South America Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine.

The lecture, titled "Opportunities and Prospects for Economic Cooperation Between Ukraine and the Countries of Latin America and the Caribbean," was held as part of the course "Economic Development and Geoeconomic Environment of Anglo-American and Latin American Countries" (Instructor: Assoc. Prof. I.O. Voloshenko).

The following key topics were discussed during the meeting:

• Priority Markets: An analysis of the economic potential of key South American players for Ukrainian exports.

• Investment Projects: Real-world cooperation cases and promising niches for Ukrainian businesses in the region.

• Geoeconomic Challenges: The impact of global logistical and political changes on the dynamics of trade relations.

The lecturer shared practical nuances of diplomatic support for the state's economic interests with future American studies specialists. Students had the opportunity to ask professional questions and receive expert commentary on the current vector of Ukrainian diplomacy in Latin America.

Such events strengthen the practical component of education, allowing students to synchronize their theoretical knowledge with real-world processes in Ukraine's foreign policy.

On 28 October 2024, Olena Yalova, Director of the State Protocol Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, PhD in Law, gave a lecture on ‘Protocol and Ceremonial Peculiarities of Visits at the High and Top Levels’ for the 1st year students of the Master's degree programme in International Finance and Investment.

The lecturer spoke about the practice of organising visits at the highest and highest levels. She identified the key points in the preparation of such visits. She also noted that visits at the highest and highest level play a crucial role in the foreign policy activities of the state. It is through direct communication between senior officials of states that it is possible to quickly and authoritatively resolve acute and complex issues of international life. The lecture was very interesting. Students asked many questions about the organisation of protocol ceremonies and visits.

On 14 May 2025, with the assistance of the Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service, a lecture was held with Olena Volodymyrivna Yalova, Director of the Department of State Protocol of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine. The lecture was held with the 1st year students of the Bachelor's degree programme ‘International Relations’ in the format of the discipline ‘Fundamentals of Diplomacy and Diplomatic Service’. The topic of the lecture was: ‘Protocol and Ceremonial Peculiarities of Visits at the High and Summit Levels’. 

She paid special attention to the classification, objectives and goals of visits. She spoke about the peculiarities of preparing visit programmes, protocol elements of meeting guests, and ceremonial issues during high-level and top-level visits. The lecture was very interesting and informative, and the students asked a lot of questions about the protocol features of visits.

On 27 November 2024, as part of the discipline ‘Diplomatic History of Ukraine’, the 1st year students of the Bachelor's degree programme ‘Country Studies’ had the opportunity to listen to a lecture by Volodymyr Yatsenkivskyi, Ambassador at Large of Ukraine, on ‘Priorities of Ukraine's Foreign Policy at the Present Stage’. 

Despite the air raid, the lecture continued in a shelter, where students had the opportunity to communicate in a dialogue format and ask Mr Ambassador questions about current issues of international relations and foreign policy of our country. 

The Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service expresses its deepest respect to the dear Volodymyr Volodymyrovych and looks forward to further fruitful cooperation in the future.

On 08 April 2025, with the assistance of the Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service, a great opportunity to get acquainted with the practice of modern diplomacy took place. Ambassador at Large of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Volodymyr Yatsenkivskyi visited the Educational and Research Institute of International Relations to meet with the 1st year students of the Master's degree programme ‘Diplomacy and International Cooperation’ and gave an extremely interesting and practical lecture on ‘Professional qualities of a diplomat in the context of geopolitical transformations of the XXI century’ within the discipline ‘Diplomatic Service and Law of Foreign Relations’. 

In a highly engaging style and using his own practical experience, the Ambassador described: 

• professional requirements for a modern diplomat;
• psychological aspects of diplomatic work;
• regulatory and legal regulation of the modern diplomatic service;
• models of foreign diplomacy.

The lecture was made possible thanks to the long-standing practice of cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine and the Educational and Research Institute of International Relations of Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, where diplomats-practitioners are involved in teaching academic disciplines. In this way, students gain invaluable knowledge and practical skills in the field of practical diplomacy to be better prepared for their future profession.

The next master class by Mr Volodymyr Yatsenkivskyi is scheduled for May.

On 12 March 2025, with the assistance of the Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service, a lecture was held by the Director General of the Ukrainian Institute Volodymyr Sheiko on ‘Content, Priorities and Tools for the Implementation of Ukraine's Cultural Diplomacy’ within the discipline ‘Fundamentals of Diplomacy and Diplomatic Service’ for 1st year students of the Bachelor's degree programme in International Relations. The lecture was held at a very high, professional level. 

The lecturer spoke about the activities of the Ukrainian Institute. Volodymyr Sheiko also spoke about the key concepts of cultural diplomacy, emphasising the importance of diplomats' professionalism in protecting national interests through cultural cooperation. The speaker also shared his own experience in the diplomatic and consular service, the results of cooperation with foreign partners after the full-scale invasion of Russia. The students were very interested and asked a lot of questions.

On 14 March 2025, with the assistance of the Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service, a lecture was held by the Spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Department of Public Diplomacy and Communications, Heorhiy Tykhyi, on the topic: ‘Ukraine's Information Policy in Times of War’ within the discipline ‘International Information and Communication’ for 4th year students of the Bachelor's degree programme in International Communications.

The lecture was held at a very high, professional level. The lecturer spoke about the information policy of Ukraine, which is taking place in the context of war. The speaker shared his own experience of information policy against the backdrop of the Russian invasion. The lecture was very interesting and informative, and the students were very interested in it, so they asked a lot of questions about Ukraine's information policy.

On March 18, 2025, with the assistance of the Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service, a lecture was held by the Ambassador-at-Large of the Third Territorial Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Ruslan Mykolayovych Spirin, on ‘Integration Processes in Latin America’ within the discipline ‘European Union Law’ for 2nd year students of the Bachelor's degree programme in International Law.

The lecture was held at a very high, professional level. The lecturer told the students about the idea of Latin American unity during the struggle for independence in the nineteenth century. The key stages of integration were considered: from the first attempts, reforms and current trends. The lecturer paid attention to economic, political, social and cultural factors. Ruslan also noted that integration remains an important strategy for Latin American countries and the future of the region will depend on the ability of member countries to overcome differences, find compromises and jointly solve urgent problems.

On April 1, 2026, the Educational and Scientific Institute of International Relations (IIR) hosted a meeting for 3rd-year "International Relations" students with Ruslan SPIRIN, Ambassador-at-Large of the Directorate General for Latin America and the Caribbean of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine.

The session was part of the "International Organizations" course. The lecture was titled: "Interstate Regional and Sub-regional Organizations of North and South America."

Key Highlights:

• Security and Cooperation Architecture: The role of the Organization of American States (OAS) and its influence on political processes in the Western Hemisphere.

• Economic Blocs: An analysis of MERCOSUR, CARICOM, and the Pacific Alliance within the context of the modern global economy.

• Ukraine's Interests: Strategies for Ukraine's engagement with American regional organizations to strengthen international support and expand trade.

Ambassador Spirin shared unique practical insights from his diplomatic service in Latin American countries, discussing the nuances of "summit diplomacy" and the specifics of lobbying for national interests in multilateral formats.

Direct engagement with high-ranking diplomats provides students with a deeper understanding of complex regional systems and offers essential professional guidance from the leading experts of the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry.

On 21 March 2025, with the assistance of the Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service, a lecture by Doctor of Law, Professor Olena Bakalinska, Head of the Innovation Development and Investment Support Division of the Department of Economic Diplomacy, was held on the topic: ‘Economic Diplomacy’ within the discipline ‘Theory and Forms of International Economic Relations’ for 2nd year students of the Bachelor's degree programme in International Economic Relations. 

The lecturer spoke about an important area of diplomatic relations and a means of protecting the country's foreign economic interests. She emphasised the sustainable development goals aimed at addressing complex and interrelated issues that require the involvement of all stakeholders in various sectors and areas. She also highlighted how economic issues have always been in the focus of diplomatic relations between states and have been raised by diplomats at all historical stages of international relations, as they have contributed to the establishment of effective economic cooperation and the resolution of national economic interests of states. 

On 25 March 2025, with the assistance of the Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service, a lecture was held by Iryna Shum, Deputy Director of the Department of Public Communication, on the topic: ‘Public Diplomacy: the Role and Importance of Ukraine's Foreign Policy’ within the discipline ‘Foreign Policy of Ukraine’ for 4th year students of the Bachelor's degree programme in International Business. 

The topic was the coverage of Ukraine's public diplomacy during the years of the full-scale invasion. Ms Iryna paid a lot of attention to both the theoretical basis and interesting cases from the work of the department. The students had the opportunity to ask questions related to the current challenges Ukraine faces in the field of the lecturer's specialisation, as well as the practical work of diplomatic and consular missions and the central office of the MFA. 

On 27 March 2025, with the assistance of the Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service, a lecture was held by Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to Lebanon (2016-2022) Ihor Ostash on the topic: ‘The role of the Foreign Ministry in promoting Ukrainian culture abroad during the Russian aggression against Ukraine on the example of the Middle East’ within the discipline ‘Humanitarian Factor in World Politics’ for 2nd year students of the Bachelor's degree programme in Country Studies.    

The lecturer spoke about the peculiarities of Ukraine's cultural diplomacy in Lebanon. He focused on the peculiarities of Lebanon's history, religion and culture. The lecturer shared with the students his personal experience of creating modern cultural diplomacy projects and their results. We are especially grateful to Bila Andriana, assistant and postgraduate student of the Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service, for her help in meeting with Ihor Ostash.

On 31 March 2025, with the assistance of the Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service, a great opportunity to get acquainted with the world of public diplomacy of Ukraine took place. The Director of the Department of Public Diplomacy and Communications of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Victoria Lyalina-Boyko visited the Educational and Research Institute of International Relations to meet with the 1st year students of the Master's degree programme ‘Diplomacy and International Cooperation’ and gave an extremely interesting and practical lecture on ‘Public Diplomacy: Role and Importance in Ukraine's Foreign Policy’ within the discipline ‘Diplomatic Protocol and Professional Ethics’. 

In an extremely engaging style and using a wide range of factual material, the diplomat revealed a number of ‘hot’ issues of modern Ukrainian public diplomacy, in particular:

• how the Public Diplomacy Strategy for 2021-2025 works in times of war;
• how public diplomacy activities are targeted depending on the specifics of the country and region;
• What is ‘data-driven digital campaigns’ and how modern tools such as toolkit, message box, storytelling, etc. are used in the work of the Department;
• what is unique about public diplomacy projects under the First Lady's patronage;
• how important it is to use non-standard and creative steps in the work of a diplomat and much more!

The lecture was made possible thanks to the long-standing practice of cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine and the Educational and Research Institute of International Relations of Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, where diplomats-practitioners are involved in teaching academic disciplines. In this way, students gain invaluable knowledge and practical skills in the field of practical diplomacy to be better prepared for their future profession.

On April 8, 2026, a diplomatic masterclass titled "Public Diplomacy of Ukraine" was held on the Microsoft Teams platform, delivered by Viktoriia Lialina-Boiko, Director of the Public Diplomacy Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Ukraine.

How to reach an audience of 3 billion people on social media? How to turn the idea of demining Ukrainian territories into a sophisticated protocol gift from the MFA? How to ensure the fulfillment of vital foreign policy objectives through creative information campaigns?

Viktoriia Lialina-Boiko, a prominent Ukrainian diplomat and Director of the Public Diplomacy Department of the MFA of Ukraine, shared insights on these topics and much more with international relations students today. Viktoriia Hryhorivna visited 4th-year students at the invitation of the Department of International Organizations and Diplomatic Service (headed by Professor Viktor Matviienko).

The students were offered a lecture in a masterclass format on the theme "Public Diplomacy of Ukraine." During the session, an incredible number of practical examples were examined, showcasing how modern public diplomacy, through the efforts of the MFA's Public Diplomacy Department, resolves critical issues of Ukraine's foreign policy, reacts instantaneously to the aggressor's propaganda, and spreads Ukrainian narratives across official platforms and social media to reach the widest possible global audience. Students learned about life hacks for a multi-format and multi-platform approach to the information and communication activities of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The session once again provided an opportunity to see that modern Ukrainian diplomacy is at the forefront of Ukraine's foreign policy, unites professionals of the highest caliber, and is an extremely important front in the struggle for sovereignty and independence.

On April 03, 2025, with the assistance of the Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service, a lecture was held by the Director of the Department of Economic Diplomacy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Candidate of Political Sciences, Spyridonova Kira Oleksandrivna on the topic: ‘Ukraine in International Economic Cooperation’. for the 1st year students of the Master's degree programme ‘International Economic Relations’ within the discipline ‘Quantitative Methods of Analysis of International Economic Relations’, she held a master class for students of the Master's degree programme ‘International Economic Relations’. 

During the master class, Kira discussed issues within the framework of Ukraine's economic diplomacy. In particular, cooperation with the EU, the consequences of sanctions against Russia, trade wars, logistics and insurance for Ukrainian exporters. She also spoke about the issue of refugees from Ukraine to the EU and migration policy. The lecturer also highlighted the peculiarities of internships at the MFA and the functions of the Department of Economic Diplomacy. 

On 08 April 2025, the Educational and Research Institute of International Relations of Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, with the assistance of the Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service, hosted a lecture by Volodymyr Pakhil, Counsellor of the South Asia Division of the Fourth Territorial Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to the Republic of Indonesia (2012-2020), Representative of Ukraine to ASEAN (2013-2020), Candidate of Political Sciences, on ‘Integration Processes in the Asia-Pacific Region. ASEAN: Prospects for Ukraine’ within the discipline “Law of the European Union” for 2nd year students of the Bachelor's degree programme “International Law”.  

The lecturer outlined the current trends in the development of integration processes in the Asia-Pacific region, focused on the peculiarities of ASEAN's functioning and activities, its role in the region. Trade agreements in the Asia-Pacific region are analysed. Particular attention was paid to highlighting the problems and prospects for the development of relations with the countries of Southeast Asia. Volodymyr Oleksandrovych's lecture aroused considerable interest among the students.

On 08 April 2025, with the assistance of the Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service, a lecture was held by Rostyslav Palahusynets, Deputy Director of the Department of State Protocol - Head of the Office Delegations Reception Division of the Department of State Protocol of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Doctor of Public Administration, on ‘Establishment of Diplomatic Relations and Opening of Diplomatic Missions’ within the discipline ‘Fundamentals of Diplomacy and Diplomatic Work’ for 2nd year students of the Bachelor's degree programme in International Business. 

The lecture was devoted to the establishment of diplomatic relations between states and the process of opening diplomatic missions of foreign countries in Ukraine. He outlined the main stages of opening a newly established diplomatic mission of a foreign state in Ukraine. Rostyslav Vasylovych presented to the audience the stages of institutionalisation of relations between states, in particular, the exchange of ambassadors, presentation of credentials, and diplomatic activities of ambassadors in the host country. He also illustrated the original documents of credentials, which the students were able to see. The lecturer touched upon such important aspects as the appointment and recall of the head and members of the diplomatic mission, the arrival of the head of mission to the host country, and the presentation of copies and originals of credentials. The lecturer's practical experience was of particular value, especially in the context of martial law in Ukraine.

On April 09, 2025, with the assistance of the Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service, a lecture was held by Svitlana Krysa, Deputy Director, Head of the Consular Services Division of the Consular Service Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, on the topic ‘Functions of consular offices. Consular privileges and immunities’ for the 1st year students of the Bachelor's degree programme “International Relations”.  

The lecture was dedicated to the activities of the Consular Service of Ukraine. Svitlana Anatoliivna spoke about adherence to universal human fundamental values, the principles of reciprocity, and the protection of the rights and interests of Ukrainian individuals and legal entities abroad. She stressed the importance of creating conditions for maintaining contacts with Ukrainians abroad. 

On April 11, 2025, with the assistance of the Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service, an extremely interesting meeting of the 4th year students of the specialisation (elective block) ‘European Law’ of the Bachelor's degree programme ‘International Law’ with Ms Svitlana KRYSA, Deputy Director - Head of the Consular Services Division of the Consular Service Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine / MFA of Ukraine in the format of the discipline ‘European System of Human Rights Protection’ took place.

Ms. Svitlana Krysa delivered two lectures on ‘Citizenship issues’ and ‘Migration and visa policy of Ukraine in the context of European integration’, during which she highlighted the most pressing issues and challenges that the Ukrainian consular service has to face in the context of large-scale aggression against our country. We thank our consuls for all their efforts to protect the interests of Ukrainian citizens abroad!

On April 9, 2026, the Educational and Scientific Institute of International Relations of Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv hosted a meeting for first-year Master’s students of the "International Relations" educational program with the Consul General of Ukraine in Gdansk, Svitlana KRYSA.

The lecture, titled "Diplomatic Protection of State Interests and the Interests of Its Legal Entities and Individuals Abroad," focused on one of the most critical and practical aspects of modern diplomatic service.

Key highlights of the lecture included:

• Mechanisms of Consular Support: Practical implementation of protecting the rights of Ukrainians in both crisis and everyday situations.
• Consular Operations in Poland: The specifics of diplomatic engagement within the Gdansk consular district and coordination with local authorities.
• Economic Diplomacy: Tools for protecting the interests of Ukrainian legal entities in international markets.
• Case Studies: Real-world experience from the consular service in resolving complex legal and humanitarian issues.

Svitlana KRYSA shared her unique professional expertise, detailing the daily challenges faced by Ukrainian diplomats in consular missions. The interactive format allowed students to gain firsthand insights into career paths within the consular service and the nuances of defending national interests within the legal frameworks of foreign states.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the Consul General for an insightful lecture and for providing professional guidance to the next generation of international relations specialists.

On 09 April 2025, with the assistance of the Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service, a practice-oriented and inspiring professional meeting with Ms Olena Yalova, Director of the Department of State Protocol of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, was held. This masterclass was held with the 1st year students of the Master's degree programme in International Business in the format of the Diplomatic Protocol and Etiquette course. The topic of this masterclass was: ‘Protocol and Ceremonial Peculiarities of Visits at the High and the Highest Levels’. In her presentation, Olena Yalova focused on:

• classification, objectives and goals of visits;
• peculiarities of preparing visit programmes;
• protocol elements of meeting guests;
• issues of ceremonial during high-level and top-level visits;
• gifts in protocol practice, etc.

The lecture was made possible thanks to the long-standing practice of cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine and the Educational and Research Institute of International Relations of Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, where diplomats-practitioners are involved in teaching academic disciplines. In this way, students gain invaluable knowledge and practical skills in the field of practical diplomacy to be better prepared for their future profession.

The students thanked Ms Olena Yalova with a standing ovation for the interesting lecture and received comprehensive answers to all their questions.

On 11 April 2025, with the assistance of the Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service, a meeting was held with Nadiia Koval, Advisor to the International Initiatives Division of the Political Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine. The lecture was held with the 2nd year students of the Master's degree programme ‘Foreign Policy and National Security’ in the format of the discipline ‘Ukraine and the Settlement of International Conflicts’. 

The topic of this lecture: ‘Ukraine's goals in the war and after it’. In her presentation, Nadiia Yevheniivna highlighted the issue of Russia's armed aggression: proactive and reactive goals, a bilateral interstate war with different types of international support for both sides, local and global aspects of the confrontation.  She stressed that Ukraine's partners provide financial and military assistance, political support, but do not participate in the war. She also noted Russia's support within and outside of formal alliances - Iran's provision of attack drones; military and other forms of indirect support to the DPRK.

On 17 April 2025, with the assistance of the Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service, an extremely interesting meeting of 2nd year students of the Bachelor's degree programme ‘International Relations’ with the Director of the First Territorial Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Mr Rostyslav OHRYZKO, took place in the format of the discipline ‘Foreign Policy of Ukraine’. 

Rostyslav Volodymyrovych gave a lecture on ‘Evolution of German policy in the context of support for Ukraine’, during which he emphasised how German policy affects the support for Ukraine. After the lecture, Mr Rostyslav talked to the students, who asked a lot of questions about the internship at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine.

On 24 April 2025, with the assistance of the Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service, a meeting was held with the Deputy Director of the Department - Head of the Foreign Policy Analysis Division of the Political Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Maksym Mantiuk. The lecture was held with the 2nd year students of the Bachelor's degree programme ‘International Relations’ in the format of the discipline ‘Foreign Policy’.

The topic of the lecture was: ‘Ukraine's role in shaping the new world order’. Maksym Anatoliiovych highlighted the problem of the new world order in the modern world, which is caused by global modernisation and large-scale modernisation processes. The lecturer noted that among the significant factors influencing the formation of the new world order are the constant and largest cases of ‘local armed conflicts’ / ‘local wars’ in the history of mankind.

On 27 May 2025, with the assistance of the Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service, a meeting was held with Oleksii LUTSKEVYCH, Head of the Justice and Internal Affairs Division of the EU and NATO Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine. The lecture was held with the 1st year students of the Master's degree programme ‘Diplomacy and International Cooperation’ in the format of the discipline ‘Regional Diplomacy and Cross-Border Cooperation’ (Associate Professor Viacheslav Tsivatyi).

The topic of this lecture: ‘The Role of the MFA in the Negotiations on Ukraine's Accession to the European Union’. Oleksiy LUTSKEVYCH told the students that at the current stage, the diplomatic service of Ukraine is actively building an updated model of its activities and is actively working on the information, analytical and negotiation component in the context of the Russian-Ukrainian war. He drew attention to practical cases on these issues and the updating of the regulatory framework in the field of European integration. The practicing diplomat shared his own experience and answered numerous questions from the audience on the organisation of the work of the Justice and Internal Affairs Division of the EU and NATO Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, as well as focused on the specifics of preparing for negotiations and the stages of the European integration negotiation process. The discussion on important foreign policy and diplomatic topics for Ukraine ended with words of great gratitude!

On 20 May 2025, with the assistance of the Department of International Organisations and Diplomatic Service, a meeting was held with the Ambassador at Large of the Department of Consular Service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Alla Valentynivna POLYOVA. The lecture was held with 1st year students of the Master's degree programme ‘Diplomacy and International Cooperation’ in the format of the discipline ‘Regional Diplomacy and Cross-Border Cooperation’ (prof. Viktor MATVIENKO, associate professor Viacheslav Tsivatyi, prof. Nataliia YAKOVENKO).

The topic of this lecture: ‘ENSURING THE RIGHTS, FREEDOMS AND INTERESTS OF UKRAINIAN CITIZENS ABROAD’. Alla Polyova told the students that at the present stage, the Consular Service of Ukraine is actively building an updated model of its activities and is actively working to protect the rights, freedoms and interests of Ukrainian citizens abroad in the context of the Russian-Ukrainian war. She drew attention to practical cases on these issues and the update of the regulatory framework for consular activities. The career diplomat shared her practical experience and answered numerous questions from the audience. The discussion on important topics for Ukraine ended with a round of applause and words of gratitude!

On March 31, 2026, the Educational and Scientific Institute of International Relations (IIR) hosted a meeting for 1st-year "International Relations" students with Alla POLIOVA, Ambassador-at-Large of the Consular Service Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine.

The session was part of the "Fundamentals of Diplomacy and Diplomatic Service" course (Instructor: Professor V.M. Matviienko). The lecture was titled: "Principles of Activity, Structure, and Priorities of the Consular Service of Ukraine: Functions of Consular Posts, Consular Privileges, and Immunities."

Key Highlights:

• Protection of Citizens: Priority tasks of the consular service in ensuring the rights and interests of Ukrainians abroad under current global challenges.

• Institutional Structure: The coordination between the Consular Service Department and the network of foreign diplomatic missions.

• Legal Status: A detailed look at consular functions, as well as the scope of privileges and immunities under the Vienna Convention.

Ambassador Poliova А. shared practical cases from consular practice, emphasizing the importance of digitalizing consular services and providing rapid responses to emergencies.

Such direct interactions with seasoned practitioners allow students to build a clear understanding of Ukraine's modern diplomatic architecture and the vital role of the consular service from their very first year of study.

On March 30, 2026, within the course “Consular Work in Modern Diplomatic Practice” of the Department of International Organizations and Diplomatic Service a lecture for first-year master’s students was held. The lecture was given by Andrii IVASYSHYN, Head of the Division for the Protection of the Rights of Ukrainian Citizens and Legal Entities Abroad within the Consular Protection Directorate of the Consular Service Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, on “Protection of the Rights of Ukrainian Citizens Abroad.” The lecturer highlighted the specifics of a consul’s work with Ukrainian citizens abroad and shared his own extensive experience through specific case studies.

On March 26, 2026, the Educational and Scientific Institute of International Relations of Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv hosted a meeting between 4th-year students of the "International Relations" educational program and Anatolii TKACH, Head of the Caribbean Department of the Directorate General for Latin America and the Caribbean of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine. The topic of the lecture was: "Development of Relations Between Ukraine and the Countries of Latin America and the Caribbean."

The speaker shared his practical experience in advancing Ukrainian interests in a region that is gaining strategic significance for our state.

Key Highlights of the Meeting:

• New MFA Strategy: Priorities for cooperation with the countries of the Global South and the expansion of Ukraine's political influence.

• International Support: Efforts to engage Caribbean nations in supporting Ukrainian resolutions at the UN General Assembly and their participation in Peace Summits.

• Economy and Security: Promising areas for trade and strategies to counter disinformation within the region.

Anatolii Tkach also discussed the specific nuances of diplomatic work in the Latin American direction and answered questions regarding career opportunities for future specialists.

Such events are an integral part of the systematic training of students at the Institute of International Relations, providing them with the opportunity to gain insights into modern diplomatic processes directly from practitioners.

On March 12, 2026, the Educational and Scientific Institute of International Relations of Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv hosted a distinguished meeting for future diplomats. Volodymyr KHOMANETS, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to the Republic of Tunisia and the State of Libya, addressed the 1st-year Master’s students of the "Diplomacy and International Cooperation" program.

The lecture, titled "Modern International Legal Practice in Support of Diplomatic Activity Abroad: Ukraine’s Diplomatic Mission in a Foreign State," was held as part of the "Diplomatic Service and Foreign Relations Law" course (Instructor: Professor V.M. Matviienko).

The session covered the following key areas:

• Legal Framework: The regulatory basis and legal status of Ukraine's diplomatic missions abroad.

• The Role of the Head of Mission: Powers, strategic tasks, and the specific professional requirements for a modern ambassador.

• Operational Organization: Staffing structures, distribution of duties among personnel, and communication channels between the embassy and headquarters.

• Security Matters: Critical safety aspects of diplomatic missions’ operations in the current global environment.

Ambassador Khomanets shared firsthand experience in managing diplomatic missions within high-stakes regions, emphasizing the necessity of adaptability and professionalism amidst global transformations.

Direct interaction with high-ranking active diplomats remains an integral part of the IIR curriculum, bridging the gap between academic theory and the practical realities of the foreign service.

On April 2, 2026, Dmytro Byliev, Advisor to the Foreign Policy Analysis Division of the Political Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, delivered a lecture at the Educational and Scientific Institute of International Relations of Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv. The lecture was titled: "Analytical Work of a Diplomat in a Foreign Diplomatic Mission: Institutional Frameworks, Tools, and Strategic Priorities." The lecture was organized for 3rd-year students of the "International Communications" educational program (under Assoc. Prof. N.B. Bielousova) and 1st-year students of the "Country Studies" educational program (under Assoc. Prof. R.A. Kryvonos).

During the lecture, Mr. Byliev outlined the process of organizing analytical work in foreign diplomatic missions and the requirements for the analytical support of a diplomatic mission's operations. Special attention was paid to the role of analytics in the state decision-making process. Students were also presented with a practical case study to clearly understand the proposed methods and organization of analytical work.

Dmytro Byliev shared practical advice and recommendations with the students, drawn from his extensive experience working in foreign diplomatic missions and the Central Apparatus of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine.

The students demonstrated a high level of interest in the lecture topic, actively asking questions, successfully testing their skills by solving the assigned analytical task, and sharing their own views on current international challenges and threats.

During the discussion, the Institute's students also demonstrated strong motivation, solid professional training, and a deep understanding of current issues in international relations and foreign policy.

The format of lectures and masterclasses by practicing Ukrainian diplomats, established at the Educational and Scientific Institute of International Relations, is highly successful. It helps shape the worldview of the Institute's students and provides them with essential practical experience.