Ukrainian in Brazil

Introduction / History

Ukraine lies to the north of the Black Sea in southwest European Russia. Historic ties to Poland and a Cossack tradition contribute to the Ukrainian heritage. Often referred to as the breadbasket of the former Soviet Union, Ukraine is a primary grain-producing region. It also boasts great mineral wealth and has a productive iron and steel manufacturing economy. There are also large numbers of Ukrainians in Siberia and northern Kazakhstan. There is a growing Ukrainian diaspora in South America, and some are in Paraguay, Brazil and Argentina.

The first Ukrainians began to arrive in Brazil in the 1890s. They settled in Brazil’s state of Purana, and they were farmers. Because of writings by Ukrainian agronomist and nationalist Dr Joseph Oleskiw, Ukrainians began to emigrate to Canada instead. Canada offered free land to farm at that time.

Ukrainians in Brazil are most numerous in the southeastern urban centers. They are especially numerous in the Prudentopolis region. Brazil has the third largest Ukrainian diaspora.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Ukraine has been the breadbasket of Eastern Europe until war broke out with Russia. Some Ukrainian in Brazil are using their agricultural skills in Brazil.

Those with a good education or business skills are able to make their living in Brazil’s urban centers. Except for the recent war refugees, most are third generation. Most Ukrainians have stopped speaking Ukrainian in favor of Portuguese, Brazil’s trade language. Yet they keep enjoying traditional Ukrainians breads and soups like borsh.

The new Ukrainian war refugees are feeling at home among those who emigrated to Brazil in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. War refugees are often sent by Ukrainian Evangelical churches. They are welcomed by Brazil’s strong Evangelical counterparts.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Ukrainian churches help preserve their culture. Most Ukrainians in Brazil are either Roman Catholics or Orthodox Christian. Ukraine was nicknamed the “Bible Belt” of Eastern Europe for a reason; they have a strong Evangelical movement there. Those who are transplanted to Brazil can be used by God to be part of a mission movement.

What Are Their Needs?

In the 2020s, Ukrainians are facing the stress of war with a major world power. They might live in faraway Argentina, but most have family and friends who are facing danger. Some need trauma counseling in Brazil.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully among Ukrainians in Brazil, thrusting them out as his ambassadors to the nations.
Pray that they base their lives on relationship with Christ and become passionate evangelists.
Pray for spiritual and emotional healing over Ukraine’s war with Russia. May Ukrainians allow Christ to heal their hearts and minds!

Text Source:   Joshua Project