Discrimination and Rights Violations of Minorities in Ukraine: Evaluating Ethno-National Policies for Reform

Yuliia V. Tsurkan-Saifulina1 & Yuliia D. Popelnytska2

Abstract
This article examines Ukraine’s ethno-national policies and their efficacy in protecting the rights of ethnic, linguistic, and religious minorities. The study utilizes a qualitative approach, combining content analysis of academic literature with legal analysis of domestic legislation and international norms on minority protections. It highlights the discrimination and rights violations experienced by certain groups, especially Crimean Tatars under Russian occupation. Perspectives from criminology and legal theory are applied to analyze causative factors enabling abuse. The article concludes by proposing recommendations to enhance legal protections, strengthen accountability mechanisms, increase minorities’ political participation, and implement comprehensive anti-discrimination reforms. Effective implementation of ethno-policies requires acknowledging minorities’ concerns, ensuring their representation in governance, and upholding principles of multiculturalism. The study contributes to scholarly discourse on managing diversity and underscores the urgency of rights protections in conflict-affected states like Ukraine.

Keywords: Ethnic Minorities, Legal Status, Human Rights, Discrimination, Oppression, Crimean Tatars.