Documentary highlights Ukraine's push for European integration

Swedish director Viktor Nordenskiöld's new documentary, "The Eukrainian," will premiere at the CPH:DOX festival in Copenhagen on March 24. The film offers an intimate look at Olha Stefanishyna, Ukraine's deputy prime minister. She is a key figure in Ukraine’s efforts to join the European Union and NATO amid ongoing conflict. Filmed between 2022 and 2024, the documentary explores Stefanishyna's challenges following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. She has been a prominent advocate for Ukraine's European integration since 2020, when she was only 34 years old. The film highlights the complexities of EU diplomacy and the difficulties Ukraine faces in gaining support, especially from Hungary. It also addresses internal challenges, such as corruption and meeting EU membership standards. Nordenskiöld, a journalist with experience covering Ukraine, believes that Stefanishyna's story is compelling and emotionally resonant. He aimed to create a sincere dialogue, which helped him gain her trust. The film features a touching scene where she speaks to her children about their future, reflecting the emotional weight of her role as a leader in a war-torn country. The director hopes the film encourages discussions about democracy and Europe's future. He emphasizes the importance of standing against authoritarianism in today’s world. Nordenskiöld has a history of documenting strong women in leadership, showcasing a mix of strength and emotion in his subjects. "The Eukrainian" is a collaboration among production companies from Sweden, France, Belgium, and Ukraine. It competes in the F:act Award section of the festival, which focuses on documentary and investigative films. CPH:DOX runs from March 19 to March 30.