Civil society news, January 8

The Holiday Season is Coming to an End – It’s Time to Set Goals and Explore New Opportunities 

In this edition of Ukrainian civil society news, we discuss citizens’ expectations for 2025. 

We also share a selection of current job openings and opportunities in the civic sector, along with details of an open appeal by Ukrainian activists to world leaders calling for a just end to the war. 

Stay with us and don’t miss the key updates!


Ukrainians Look to 2025 with Greater Hope and Optimism. According to a survey by the “Rating” group, 45% of Ukrainians believe 2025 will be better than 2024, while 27% expect it to worsen, and 20% think it will remain the same. 

Another survey, conducted by the Ilko Kucheriv Democratic Initiatives Foundation, explores the emotions Ukrainians associate with the future. The most common feelings are hope (55%), anxiety (45%), optimism (29%), fear (26%), and uncertainty (26%).


Civil society news

Ukrainian Activists Call on Global Leaders to Pursue Sustainable Peace and a Just End to the War 

On January 5, Ukrainian public figures issued an open appeal titled “Do Not Appease Evil” to world leaders, urging a just resolution to the war and the establishment of lasting peace. Over 160 individuals signed the document, including our partners such as MEZHA, CASE Ukraine, the International Center for Ukrainian Victory, and the Anti-Corruption Action Center, alongside MPs, diplomats, academics, and religious leaders. 

The appeal highlights that Russia’s objective extends beyond territorial expansion to the disruption of the global order. It argues that Russia’s defeat is essential for restoring international stability, strengthening global trade, and ensuring nuclear and food security. The signatories call on global leaders to prioritize punishing the aggressor to safeguard the future of Ukraine and the world.

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USAID/ENGAGE Partner Hosts Gala to Promote Ukrainian Cultural Heritage 

On January 5, the Institute of Culture of Ukraine hosted a multimedia event called “Traditions of Generous Evening in Ukraine” in Kyiv. The event aimed to highlight and preserve Ukrainian holiday traditions as part of an effort to include them in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. 

The program featured traditional performances, dishes, and the iconic “Shchedryk” by Jerry Heil and the NAONI Orchestra. Hosts Yevhen Klopotenko and Maryna Kobylianska led the evening, with special guest Artem Pivovarov.

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USAID/ENGAGE Partner Assesses Public Sentiment in Kherson for 2023-2024 

On December 30, the Community Foundation of Kherson “Zakhyst” published the report “Public Sentiment in the Kherson City Community in 2023–2024.” The report, based on 32 surveys conducted between July 2023 and September 2024, analyzes community unity, resilience, war fatigue, adaptation to war, cultural identity, and visions for Kherson’s future. 

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Opportunities

Transparent Cities / Прозорі міста are hiring: 

 Center for Civil Liberties is looking for: 

 Ukrainian Leadership Academy is hiring: 

 GoGlobal is seeking: 

 America House Kyiv is recruiting: 

 U.S. Embassy Kyiv Ukraine has an open position: 

Educational Opportunity for CSO Representatives Working in Public Health or Community Development: 


What we read? 

How Europe Can Make Russia Pay For its Aggression

In Euractiv opinion piece, ICUV leaders Olena Halushka and Victoria Voytsitska discuss the implementation of a “war tax” on Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports to the European Union. They argue that such a tax would redirect profits from Russia’s war efforts to support Ukraine’s self-defense and reconstruction.  

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