Ukraine's leading English-language newspaper since 1995

It appears that non-whites cannot even turn to Ukraine’s cops for help when targeted by skinheads, racists or xenophobic crazies.

own or imported from non-white foreigners. But, far from welcoming outsiders, it appears that non-whites cannot even turn to Ukraine’s cops for help when targeted by skinheads, racists or xenophobic crazies. Remarks from Ukraine’s top cop, Interior Minister Yuriy Lutsenko, offer the latest cold comfort for those seeking impartial justice from the nation’s law enforcement officers. After asking a subordinate how many foreigners received permission to reside in Kyiv, Lutsenko apparently was surprised to hear that 70 permits for residency were granted recently.

“What, we don’t have our own workforce?” he asked. Referring to a rising population of Chinese in Ukraine, Lutsenko said: “If you want to go to China, buy a ticket and take a vacation there.” Then he compounded his insensitivity further by saying: “You can consider me a racist, but I won’t allow another Kharkiv or Odesa to be set up in Kyiv,” he said, in reference to thriving populations of foreigners in those cities. “The rules are as follows: we give permission only if they marry one of our own [women],” he said to top cops in Kyiv.

All countries protect their workers. But Lutsenko's rhetoric effectively sanctioned discrimination. Defending himself, Lutsenko said he was referring to corruption in issuing permits. Yet his words seem to speak for themselves.

While on the topic, Ukraine needs to liberalize its labor laws to allow more foreigners in. Companies now face barriers in employing non-citizens. Laws require employers to prove Ukrainians can’t do the job. These restrictions hinder the talent pool. The policy is also bad economics. Nations that welcome new people and ideas flourish.