The Nation’s Genetic Code and International Recognition

The International Anti-Corruption Assembly Supported Maria Zaliznyak’s Patriotic Project

May 21, 2026, on Vyshyvanka Day, in the very heart of the capital — on the grounds of the National Historical and Architectural Museum «Kyiv Fortress» — a landmark cultural event took place. Folk Craftswoman of Ukraine Maria Zaliznyak presented a unique cultural-patriotic project «Renewed, United, Integral, Cathedral and Invincible Ukraine». Honorary guests and strategic partners of the event were representatives of the International Anti-Corruption Assembly (IAA).

This year’s Vyshyvanka Day became not merely a celebration of traditions, but a powerful manifesto of Ukrainian identity and resilience. Maria Zaliznyak’s project, created in collaboration with renowned ethnologist Yurii Melnychuk and the All-Ukrainian Centre of Embroidery and Carpet Weaving under the leadership of Nadiia Vakulenko, aims to preserve national heritage, open the House of Ukrainian Embroidery and Costume, and inscribe the unique «white on white» technique on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

The official delegation of the IAA lent the event a special international standing. Chairman of the International Anti-Corruption Assembly’s Representation in Ukraine Viktor Badiia delivered a solemn address at the event:

«Dear Maria, dear organisers, honoured guests! On behalf of the International Anti-Corruption Assembly — sincere gratitude for the invitation. Your project is not merely embroidery. It is a statement to the world: Ukraine was, is, and will be. We are proud to stand alongside you. Thank you for the beauty, for the resilience, and for reminding us — what it is we all work for. Glory to Ukraine!»

During his brief address, Viktor Badiia took an important step — officially announcing the expansion of partnership within the framework of cultural diplomacy and the launch of preparations for the international festival UA Event Project “THANK YOU”, to be held in September 2027 in Prague (Czech Republic). Maria Zaliznyak and her project were invited to participate in this large-scale event.

The main message of the upcoming European event is fully consonant with the philosophy of the presented project — it is an expression of profound gratitude to the countries of the world that support Ukraine in its struggle for freedom. In 2027, in Prague, Ukrainian embroidery, as an authentic national code, will resound across all of Europe, demonstrating to the world the strength, nobility, and spiritual grandeur of the Ukrainian people.