USAID/ENGAGE

Civil society news, July 3

In this week’s edition, we highlight the remarkable resilience of Ukrainian society during wartime, marked by significant increase in trust towards social institutions. We bring you the latest initiatives, projects, and events from our partners, each playing a vital role in shaping Ukraine’s future. Discover how the country’s rich cultural diversity and vibrant volunteer spirit continue to flourish and adapt despite ongoing challenges. Read this edition to stay informed and inspired!

During wartime, Ukrainians have shown a significant increase in trust towards social institutions. According to a survey carried out by Razumkov Center, trust in the Armed Forces of Ukraine rose from 68% in 2021 to 90% in 2024. Trust in volunteer organizations experienced a boost from 64% to 81%, and volunteer battalions from 53% to 80%. Trust in the State Emergency Service rose from 61% to 79%, and in the National Guard from 53% to 75%. The State Border Guard Service saw an increase from 55% to 70%, while trust in civil society organizations grew from 47% to 56%.


Civil society news

Ukrainian Association of Music Events Releases Documentary to Highlight International Cooperation for Ukraine’s Victory

On June 24, the Ukrainian Association of Music Events (UAME) released a documentary titled “Music Ambassadors Tour 2024: Ukraine Through the Eyes of European Music Industry Representatives.” In March, the Music Ambassador Tour initiative brought 12 organizers of Europe’s largest festivals, music journalists, artists, and influential cultural figures to Kyiv, Borodyanka, Irpin, and Chernihiv to witness the devastating impact of Russia’s invasion. It aimed to highlight the war and garner international support for Ukraine.

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CHESNO Movement Launches Project to Explore Impact of Full-Scale War on Government

On June 27, CHESNO Movement launched the “Republic” special project in the form of interviews with experts, academics, and MPs. The series explores the impact of the full-scale war on key government bodies, the steps needed for the Verkhovna Rada to restore its subjectivity and institutional stability, and how to maintain democratic principles and citizen participation in decision-making under martial law. The first interview features insights from Volodymyr Shapoval, former Deputy Chairman of the Constitutional Court of Ukraine, Chairman of the Central Election Commission.

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Crimean Institute for Strategic Studies to Host Conference on Protecting Cultural Heritage during Wartime

From July 4-5, the Crimean Institute for Strategic Studies will host an international conference titled “Protecting Cultural Heritage and Countering Cultural Erasure in Armed Conflict: New Challenges and Experience of Ukraine” in Kyiv. Discussions will focus on the challenges of protecting cultural heritage during war, assessing the limitations of existing legal frameworks such as the 1954 Hague Convention, and exploring innovative approaches for effective protection. The event will be held offline from 9:00 -18:00 for registered participants, with online broadcasting available. 

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Opportunities

Career opportunities at ENGAGE!   


What we read?

Kyiv Pride Highlights Changing Attitudes in Wartime Ukraine

On June 16, Ukraine’s LGBTQI+ community and allies gathered in central Kyiv to celebrate the first Pride March in the Ukrainian capital since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion. The event highlighted changing attitudes in wartime Ukraine as the country stands defiant against Russia and embraces a European future. Read the article by Aleksander Cwalina, a program assistant for the Atlantic Council’s Eurasia Center, and learn more about how the LGBTQI+ community plays a vital role in Ukraine’s European integration and defense against the Kremlin’s anti-Western crusade.

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