Background
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The STCU is the first intergovernmental organization in Ukraine and was established by an Agreement signed on 15 Oct., 1993, by its four founding Parties: Ukraine, Canada, Sweden and the United States of America. The Agreement was put into force by President Krawchuk's decree # 202 of 04 May 1994. The STCU began its first organizational steps in November 1994 and became fully registered in Ukraine on 14 February 1995. It's main purpose:
To support R&D activities by Ukrainian scientists and engineers, formerly involved with weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery, as part of the general process of conversion from a largely centralized planning military to a civilian, market-driven competitive environment, more useful for Ukraine.
In so doing, Western countries hope that Ukraine will keep its considerable pool of talented scientists in Ukraine for the benefit of Ukraine, rather than have them leave for other countries, where there knowledge might he applied to military ends. Of no lesser importance is the desire to contribute significantly to the conversion of Ukrainians - those former weapons scientists - not only in terms of the orientation of their scientific work but, more importantly, in terms of the conversion of their attitudes and working philosophy, to that prevalent in competitive, market-driven economies. To the end of 1997, the donor countries have allocated the following funds: Canada - $2,000,000, Sweden - $2,000,000 and the U.S.A. - $15,000,000 for a total of $19,000,000 all in US funds. (Canadas contribution is actually $5,000,000 CDN, the difference being used to support Canada?s share of the STCU?s operating costs, as well as the project?s Canadian costs). As its contribution, Ukraine provides suitable office premises and pays costs associated with maintenance and security. According to the Agreement, the STCU?s Executive Director and Chief Administrative Officer are appointed by Canada, the Senior Deputy Executive Director from Ukraine, one Deputy Executive Director and the Chief Financial Officer from the USA, and the third Deputy Executive Director from Sweden. The remaining staff (about 35) are Ukrainian.
Leo Owsiacki Executive Director of STCU Tel: (380-44) 227-81-50. Fax: (380-44) 227-81-56 |