Yuriy Vasylyovych was an outstanding Ukrainian scientist, candidate of pedagogical sciences, associate professor, and an active public figure.
In 1956, he was conditionally sentenced for "anti-Soviet agitation" due to his steadfast civil position and dedication to the struggle for national identity and the freedoms of the Ukrainian people. For his activities, Yuriy Hnatkevych was awarded the Order of Merit, 3rd class.
"The leadership of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, members of the Parliament of Ukraine, the leadership and staff of the Parliament’s apparatus express their sincere condolences on the death of the People’s Deputy of Ukraine of the I, V, and VI convocations, Yuriy Hnatkevych," the parliamentary statement said.