This week, Ukraine will celebrate its 33rd Independence Day, with two-and-a-half of those years spent resisting Russia’s full-scale aggression. Over these 33 years, Ukrainian civil society has continued its fight for democracy and security.
In this issue, we will highlight the values Ukrainians consider most important and the challenges they face on their path to victory. We will also share how our partners are incorporating digital technologies and artificial intelligence into their work.
Stay tuned to keep up with the latest news from Ukrainian civil society!
Ukrainians hold freedom, security, and justice as their core values. According to a survey conducted by the Ilko Kucheriv Democratic Initiatives Foundation, 91% of respondents identified freedom as their most cherished value. Additionally, 58% believe that the state should ensure equal “rules of the game” by providing equal conditions and opportunities, while individuals are responsible for making the most of these opportunities. Conversely, 35% of respondents believe that the state should take full responsibility for providing for all citizens’ needs.
Civil society news
USAID/ENGAGE Supports Digital Tools for Citizens to Influence Local Decision-Making
On August 9, the Zaporizhzhia Investigation Center shared the results of their chatbot, developed with the support of USAID/ENGAGE. By using the bot, citizens requested the Ministry of Ecology to revoke emission permits for two of the city’s largest industrial companies – Zaporizhstal and Zaporizhcoke. As a result, these permits were revoked. To date, nearly 2,000 citizens have used the bot.
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Razumkov Center Analyzes Ukraine’s Challenges and Achievements on the Path to Victory
On August 13, Razumkov Center published the July issue of its monthly analytical assessments and forecasts titled “Ukraine: From War to Peace and Recovery.” The report provides insights into the current frontline situation, the state of the Ukrainian economy, and the nation’s energy security.
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CHESNO Movement Leverages Innovative AI Technologies to Enhance Corruption Detection in Legislation
On August 14, the CHESNO Movement introduced innovative AI technologies to better identify corruption risks within legislative texts. Traditional detection methods often lack precision, but with the help of the American company 12New.AI, CHESNO is now using the BestAgreement.AI platform to analyze legal documents with greater precision.
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VoxUkraine Evaluates the Performance of Ukrainian MPs
On August 19, the VoxUkraine team presented its analysis titled “Coefficient of Deputies’ Performance.” The report evaluates the voting behavior of MPs during the 1st to 10th sessions of the IX convocation of the Verkhovna Rada, specifically focusing on their support for reform-oriented legislative initiatives. According to the ranking, MPs elected less than a year ago initially rank the highest in efficiency.
What we read?
Not Just Housing and Work: How Identity and Homesickness Affect Ukrainian Refugees’ Desire to Return Home
Russia’s aggression forced many Ukrainians to leave their homes and seek safety abroad for themselves and their families. Poland has become the largest refuge for Ukrainians since the full-scale war began from February 24, 2022, to January 2024, there were 18.61 million border crossings from Ukraine to Poland. Some refugees have moved on to other countries, some have returned home, and nearly one million stayed in Poland. VoxUkraine has studied the factors influencing Ukrainians’ desire to return home.