[The EPC would like to highlight that this Policy Dialogue
took place before the tragic events occurring in Kiyv.]

Ukraine is in deep crisis with a continuing stand-off between the Ukrainian authorities and anti-government protestors that has left several protesters dead. While the protests began as a response to the decision of Ukraine’s leadership to suspend talks on an Association Agreement, including a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA), with the EU last November, they quickly turned into a massive civic force demanding democracy, the rule of law, human rights and freedoms, as well as an end to Russian interference.

Two months later, following domestic and international pressure, Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych offered some minor concessions. The situation remains extremely tense. While it is hoped a peaceful solution can still be found, Ukraine has changed forever, with protestors determined to fight until Ukraine’s European path is assured and steps are taken to dismantle the corrupt and extractive governance structures.

This Policy Dialogue focussed on a number of key questions: is a peaceful compromise possible? What future is there for EU-Ukraine relations? What can we expect from Russia and what are the possible scenarios for the future of Ukraine?