On Saturday, December 19, 2009, during the most festive time of the year, 13 Muskie and UGRAD alumni took part in a roundtable dedicated to the topic of "Religious Tolerance in Ukraine".  The event was conducted by Maksim Vasin, Director of the Ukrainian Institute of Religious Freedom in Kyiv. During his highly interactive presentation, Mr. Vasin informed the audience about the dynamics of religious tolerance in Ukraine and methods for raising the awareness of different religions among others. He stated that, although cases of violating religious rights do occur in Ukraine, in general the situation in the country is relatively favorable towards the diversity of religious groups and confessions that exist in Ukraine. After the presentation, the ECA alumni had an opportunity to ask questions concerning the issue and to share their own family traditions of celebrating religious events and winter holidays.