After more than two years of war, Ukrainians demonstrate unwavering resilience and enduring spirit. This week, we explore their steadfast commitment to victory despite evolving timelines. We analyze the pivotal role of Western assistance, its achievements and areas for enhancement, alongside grassroots initiatives in reconstruction and civic engagement. Highlighting the solemn commemoration of Crimea’s resistance and the ongoing struggle for liberation, we also spotlight the vital role of human rights education in empowering citizens. Join us in discovering the resilience and determination that define Ukraine and Ukrainians.
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Despite the challenges of war, a significant majority of Ukrainians maintain their belief in Ukraine’s eventual victory over Russia. According to the Razumkov Center’s survey, in January 2024, 85% of respondents expressed confidence in Ukraine’s triumph, a slight decrease from previous years: 92% in August 2022, 93% in February-March 2023, and 93% in July 2023. However, compared to earlier surveys, there is a shift in the expected timing of victory. For instance, in January, among those optimistic about victory, 20% anticipate it by the end of the current year, a decrease from 50% in February-March 2023. Additionally, 40% now believe victory will occur within 1-2 years (compared to 26% previously), while 14% and 7% anticipate it within 3-5 years and beyond, respectively.
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Civil Society Highlights
New Europe Center Analyzes Western Support to Ukraine during the War
On February 23, the New Europe Center released analytical infographics evaluating Western support for Ukraine following Russia’s invasion. The infographics highlight key missteps, major achievements, and suggest initiatives from international partners that could help propel Ukraine towards victory. The objective is to prompt Western partners to rectify mistakes, take decisive actions, and contribute to bringing Ukraine and the democratic world closer to triumphing over the aggressor.
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Center for Innovation Development Presents Study on Citizens Engagement in Reconstruction
On February 23, the Center for Innovation Development unveiled a study on citizen engagement in reconstruction efforts at the local level, amid the ongoing war. The research findings will inform recommendations and guide future steps in modernizing participation democracy tools. Additionally, they will aid in shaping the operational framework of the eDem module within the digital ecosystem of reconstruction management.
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Crimean Tatar Resource Center Organizes Street Rally to Commemorate Day of Resistance to Occupation of Crimea
On February 26, the Crimean Tatar Resource Center organized a demonstration in Vinnytsia marking the 10th anniversary of the Occupation of Crimea. The event drew participation from regional leaders, military personnel, representatives of Crimean Tatars, and local residents. Flags of Crimea Tatars and Ukraine were raised, alongside banners crafted by activists from the international movement #LIBERATECRIMEA and the CSO.
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Center for Civil Liberties to Host Training on Human Rights
The Center for Civil Liberties is launching an online training “Introductory Course on Human Rights,” which will be held on March 2, 2024, from 10:00 to 13:00. Led by Oleksandra Romantsova, Executive Director of the organization, the training offers an interactive session with videos, examples, and exercises to familiarize participants with basic concepts of international human rights standards relevant to Ukraine.
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Opportunities
Check Our Opportunities and Join Us!
- We are pleased to introduce our updated and enhanced Request for Applications for civil society initiatives. It provides expanded institutional and project support, contributing to increased citizen participation in democratic processes, strengthening confidence in civil society, and advancing Ukraine’s drive towards victory. We encourage you to review its terms and conditions, submit your applications, and join us in empowering civil society in Ukraine!
- We invite qualified vendors to visit our website’s procurement section to access the latest consultant requests for USAID/ENGAGE – https://bit.ly/3u391QK
- Qualified specialists interested in our job openings are encouraged to review the listings – https://bit.ly/3UKgGN7
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State-Owned Enterprises Reform Activity (SOERA) Announces 2024 Annual Program Statement
The USAID/UKaid funded State-Owned Enterprises Reform Activity (SOERA) is pleased to announce the release of 2024 Annual Program Statement (APS) for grant funding. The document provides essential information about grants program to attract eligible actors in Ukrainian civil society who share common goals with SOERA program objectives. The APS presents a significant opportunity for potential applicants to engage with the program and seek grant funding to support their initiatives in line with SOERA’s mission and goals.
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What We Read
The Never-Ending Lessons of War
Two years have passed since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began. Those defending against continued aggression, displaced from their homes and previous lives, deal with daily, compounded loss. Read the article, published on Eurozine magazine by Kateryna Botanova, a cultural critic and curator, to explore how artists, reflecting on the trauma, tackle the questions that aim to make sense of life when everything is affected by death.
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