During challenging times for the country, it is especially important to strengthen unity and solidarity. This week, we will explore how Ukrainians, despite the ongoing war, demonstrate social cohesion through mutual support of one another. We also share insights from a recent survey on the social and political views of Ukrainians, as well as highlight stories of activists in Kherson who provide emergency assistance to residents.
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Despite wartime challenges, Ukrainians remain committed to the value of mutual support among citizens. According to a study by the School of Policy Analysis at NaUKMA titled “Reintegration of Liberated Communities and Social Cohesion,” 83% of respondents emphasize the importance of helping each other. Only 33% strongly disagree with the idea that individuals are solely on their own in Ukraine, while 41% agree with the notion that most people in the country can be trusted.
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Civil society news
From Loss to Leadership: How Larysa Polska’s ‘Zakhyst’ Foundation Aids Thousands in Kherson Despite Personal Tragedy
Since 2003, the Community Foundation “Zahyst” of the city of Kherson has been involved in developing civic initiatives and philanthropy. However, with the onset of full-scale war, the organization began providing emergency humanitarian assistance to the residents of Kherson. Despite losing her own home due to the destruction of the Kakhovska Hydroelectric Power Station, the Chair of the Foundation’s Board, Larysa Polska, continues to support the residents today: “In these challenging times, I have the strength and a strong desire to bring victory closer.”
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Democratic Initiatives Foundation Presents Findings on Socio-Political Views of Ukrainians
On April 25, the Ilko Kucheriv Democratic Initiatives Foundation presented a public opinion survey titled “Social-Political Orientations and Mobilization Challenges in Ukraine” conducted in partnership with the Razumkov Center. According to the survey, 52% of respondents believe that Ukrainians standard of living of should be equally ensured by the state and citizens themselves. 22% see it solely as the state’s responsibility, while 21% believe citizens should rely on themselves.
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CHESNO Movement Explores Verkhovna Rada’s Efficiency During Wartime
On April 25th, the CHESNO Movement released an analysis of the Ukrainian Parliament’s performance from the beginning of 2022 to April 2024. According to the findings, out of 115 sessions totaling 370 hours, a significant portion of MPs’ working time was not associated with substantial decisions or votes but instead, was rather ceremonial. CHESNO calls for improved efficiency and discipline among the Ukrainian Parliament members.
Read the study to learn more about the effectiveness of the Verkhovna Rada’s work.
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Center for Civil Liberties Advocates for Accountability of Russia’s War Crimes in Ukraine
On April 22-23, the Center for Civil Liberties participated in the Carpathian Sea Democracy Week in the Lviv region. Activists discussed the scale and consequences of the war crimes that Russia is vigorously trying to conceal from the international community. Participants also issued an open appeal to the Member States of the Council of Europe, urging more active measures to support Ukrainian civilians who have been unlawfully deprived of their freedom by the aggressor country.
On April 22, the Center for Civil Liberties leader Oleksandra Matviichuk delivered a speech at the Freedom Fighters dinner in Paris. She emphasized the need for unity among democratic nations, especially as Russia has garnered support from countries with totalitarian regimes.
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Center for Innovation Development Presents E-democracy Tool to Engage Citizens in Reconstruction Processes
On April 30th, the Center for Innovation Development presented a prototype of an e-platform for civic engagement in recovery and reconstruction. The platform, created within the framework of the state’s digital ecosystem DREAM, is designed to facilitate a transparent, accountable, and democratic recovery processes. Additionally, it will serve as a tool to involve citizens in Ukraine’s democratic development.
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Opportunities
Qualified specialists interested in ENGAGE job openings are encouraged to review our latest listings:
- Program assistant: https://bit.ly/3xxYpuI
- Arts and Culture Senior Program Officer: https://bit.ly/3xcy2up
- Researcher: https://bit.ly/3TyJkSg
- Procurement Officer: https://bit.ly/3VgW6Gd
- Program Officer, Reforms and Advocacy: https://bit.ly/3PioPGS
- Grants and Contracts Officer: https://bit.ly/4adjZCH
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What we read
Center for Sustainable Peace and Democratic Development Examines Social Cohesion in Ukraine
In recent years, Ukraine has undergone significant political and social changes and is now engaged in a full-scale war that has dramatically altered the social cohesion landscape for its citizens. In the study “Social Cohesion in Ukraine” by the Center for Sustainable Peace and Democratic Development, analysts evaluate community cooperation, social tolerance, proximity, and the absence of perceived social threats. The authors highlight the moderate level of these four key indicators of social cohesion and provide recommendations for their improvement.