The Current

Young Ukrainians protest for their nation's future

Many young Ukrainians see their future in the west towards Europe, but their government looks east to Russia. Protests have continued for weeks over which direction to look and some worry the government may be out of patience. We go to Kiev, where young people are engaged in a struggle for their nation's future....
Many young Ukrainians see their future in the west towards Europe, but their government looks east to Russia. Protests have continued for weeks over which direction to look and some worry the government may be out of patience. We go to Kiev, where young people are engaged in a struggle for their nation's future.




Young Ukrainians hit the streets in protest

Earlier this week in Kiev, musicians tried to warm up the protesters who've been in the streets of the Ukrainian capital for more than two weeks. Demonstrators are concerned about many things -- from corruption to economic reform. But the protests began when the government decided to freeze ties with the European Union in favour of closer relations with Russia. Many Ukrainians worry about the future, especially young people.

During this segment we spoke with:

  •  Marta Dyczok, a professor at Western University with expertise in Ukraine. She's lived there and been an election observer to past elections. She was in London, Ontario.
  • Stepan Berko, a 23 year-old law student and protest organizer. He was in Kiev, Ukraine.

This segment was produced by The Current's Pacinthe Mattar, Kristin Nelson, and Peter Mitton.