Sybiha introduces new MFA Consular Service head Haman

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha has introduced Oleksandr Haman as the new head of the Ministry's Consular Service Department. Haman previously led the Consulate General of Ukraine in Istanbul and the Embassy of Ukraine in Vietnam. Sybiha has set a clear mission for the department: to develop a modern consular service that addresses the current and pressing needs of Ukrainians living abroad.

The primary goal is to make accessing consular services as straightforward as possible, minimizing bureaucracy and personal visits in favor of digital solutions and remote services. To accomplish this, Sybiha called for a review of the regulatory framework, removal of outdated procedures, and increased automation. He stressed the importance of providing accessible, respectful, and efficient consular services to Ukrainians, regardless of their location.

Ensuring the protection of citizens' rights and interests is another key responsibility for the Consular Service Department, with any instances of bias, discrimination, or negativity towards Ukrainians abroad requiring prompt and appropriate responses from diplomatic missions. Sybiha personally oversees the outcomes of this work.

The department now supports over 8 million Ukrainians living abroad, requiring the consular service to adapt to changing needs and challenges. Sybiha also praised the current staff for their daily efforts and assistance to citizens worldwide, and thanked Vladyslav Kanevsky for his years of service and the impactful changes he implemented during his tenure as head of the Consular Service Department.