The International Renaissance Foundation is one of the largest philantropic institution, aimed at fostering an open, participatory, pluralist society based on democratic values in Ukraine. It is part of the Open Society Foundations network, established by investor and philanthropist George Soros.
We support civil society efforts that advance the rights of vulnerable populations, combat corruption, improve public health, combat discrimination and promote access to justice in Ukraine. In 2014, the IRF has contributed to setting up the Strategic Advisory Groups to consult the government on strategic approaches to reforms.
Ambassador to Ukraine (2009-2013), 15th YES Annual Meeting, 2018
«Russia still has to become a modern nation. It still hasn’t made the fundamental decisions to determine whether it’s going to be a part of the international community or whether it’s going to try to be an imperial power and attack its neighbors, and take their land.»