The Role of the Ukrainian Canadian Diaspora in Wartime Mobilization and Post-War Recovery & Reconstruction
By Bogdana Torbina
A Master’s Major Research Paper submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in European & Eurasian Studies, Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy, University of Toronto.
Ukrainian Canadian diaspora, rooted in over a century of immigration, community building, and institutional development, occupies a unique position in shaping Canada’s policy toward Ukraine and contributing to the country’s reconstruction. Supported by Canada’s pro-Ukraine foreign policy and multicultural framework, and empowered by strong transnational networks, the diaspora bridges the two nations through language, culture, and shared democratic values.
While the role of diasporas is increasingly recognized in conversations on Ukraine’s recovery, systematic research into their mobilisation and post-war engagement remains limited. Bogdana Torbina’s research fills this gap by examining how the Ukrainian Canadian diaspora has mobilized since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022 and how diaspora leaders, entrepreneurs, and institutional representatives envision their contribution to Ukraine’s reconstruction.
Drawing on 15 semi-structured interviews conducted in June–July 2025 with leaders of core diaspora institutions, Canadian government officials, and Ukrainian diplomatic representatives, the study identifies five key areas of engagement:
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Preserving Ukrainian identity and community ties
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Political advocacy and policy influence
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Business bridging and economic engagement
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Knowledge-sharing and professional collaboration
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Fundraising and humanitarian assistance
The research highlights the diaspora’s dual role as a preserver of culture and identity and as a transnational actor influencing policy, facilitating investment, and mobilizing aid. At the same time, it identifies challenges such as limited volunteer capacity, generational differences, underutilized individual initiatives, and the need for stronger coordination between diaspora organizations and both Canadian and Ukrainian institutions.
This paper offers an important scholarly contribution to understanding the strategic role of the Ukrainian Canadian diaspora in Ukraine’s wartime resilience and post-war reconstruction—underscoring its potential as a vital partner in Canada-Ukraine relations and long-term recovery efforts.
