The opportunity to address both Houses of Parliament is an honour afforded to few. It is not a standard part of a visit to the UK for Heads of State or Heads of Government, it is reserved for exceptional individuals, or for those whose invitation sends an important message. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy qualifies on both counts and it was a genuine privilege to hear him speak in Westminster Hall last week. He came to offer his thanks for the support the United Kingdom had already given his country and to ask for more. He did so with passion and elegance. It was in some respects a tough crowd – hundreds of Parliamentarians who consider themselves professional communicators and shrewd judges of rhetoric. I think we were not just impressed by a fellow professional’s ability to hit all the right notes but also, more importantly, by the power of his example. He has a performer’s presentational timing, but what really shines through is his immense personal courage. It is worth remembering his very limited political experience – a man previously famous in Ukraine for playing a President on television, suddenly leading his nation for real through an existential crisis. Offered the chance to leave Ukraine for safety when the Russian invasion began, he refused and instead deployed his skill in communicating through a screen to record social media videos demonstrating to his people he remained in Kyiv. His regular broadcast addresses are assured and reassuring and his international diplomacy demonstrates his courage further. He knows there is no substitute for meeting those whose ongoing support he needs in person, but every time he leaves Ukraine, flies and lands in countries where Russian agents have an organised presence, he risks his life. His central role in Ukraine’s ongoing determination to resist invasion has made him the individual target of highest priority and the most compelling case study in a leader’s capacity to inspire and to influence events the world has seen for many years.
We are approaching another election season in this country. We can expect the usual cynical refrain from some that ‘they’re all the same’ and ‘it doesn’t matter who we vote for’. They’re not and it does. Political leadership matters and who we elect can make a huge difference to the welfare and future of our country, County or District. If you don’t believe me, ask the people who still hold on in Ukraine, or those who sit frustrated in the Kremlin.
