In these challenging times, Ukraine relies on international support to counter Russia’s unjustified aggression. This newsletter highlights the unwavering solidarity of Europeans, as revealed by the Autumn 2023 Eurobarometer, showcasing robust support for Ukraine’s Euro-Atlantic integration amidst its struggle against Russia’s aggression. We’re excited to announce the upcoming “Forging Victory” Forum, showcasing Ukrainian democratic resilience. Additionally, we present you initiatives led by our partners, aimed at enhancing civic engagement and coordinating reconstruction efforts. These updates reflect a steadfast pursuit of justice, accountability, and the indomitable spirit of Ukraine’s civil society. We invite you to read and enjoy!
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Europeans’ overwhelmingly support Ukraine, as revealed by the Eurobarometer survey conducted in Autumn 2023. The survey indicates that more than a half (57%) of Europeans are satisfied with the European Union’s response to Russia’s aggression towards Ukraine, mirroring the sentiment from the previous summer. Similarly, support for national governments stands at 54% in 2023 compared to 55% in 2022. Regarding specific actions taken by the EU, an overwhelming majority, 89% in 2023 and 92% in 2022, support providing humanitarian aid to those affected by the conflict, while 84% in 2023 and 90% in 2022 agree with welcoming war refugees into the EU. Financial support to Ukraine garnered 72% approval in 2023, down from 81% in 2022, while economic sanctions on Russia, companies, and individuals maintained steady support at 72% in 2023 and 78% in 2022. Meanwhile, there is a slight decrease in support for banning state-owned media like Sputnik and Russia Today from broadcasting in the EU, with 66% in 2023 and 70% in 2022, and in approval of financing military equipment for Ukraine – 60% in 2023 compared to 68% in 2022.
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Our News
USAID/EGAGE to Support Forum on Democratic Resilience of Ukrainian Civil Society Amidst the War
On February 9, USAID/ENGAGE will support the Forum “FORGING VICTORY: From Citizen Resilience to the State of Gratitude,” organized by our partner National Interest Advocacy Network (ANTS). The Forum aims to consolidate national, regional, and local partners to develop effective proposals for the democratic resilience of Ukraine’s civil society amidst war conditions and martial law. The forum will cover topics such as human capital, social security, the business environment, community development and recovery, and networking. The event will be broadcast online on the ANTS social media platforms.
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Civil Society News
GoGlobal Hosts Annual Event to Spotlight Children Shaping Ukraine`s Future
On February 6, GoGlobal hosted an annual event to unveil the outcomes of the previous year and outline the objectives for 2024. During the event, the CSO introduced the heroes of the “Generation of Victory” communication campaign, launched to highlight the endeavors of young individuals engaged in the reconstruction of Ukraine. With an 8-year legacy, GoGlobal has impacted 200,000 children, forming a community of 5,000 teachers and 2,000 volunteers from 90 countries.
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CHESNO Movement Explores the Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Parliament’s Website
On February 1, the CHESNO Movement, published an analysis titled “How Artificial Intelligence Will Change the Website of the Verkhovna Rada,” which scrutinizes forthcoming online tools to be integrated on the parliament’s website. They include visual representations of legislative bill progress, a timeline of plenary sessions, and a page addressing the alignment of Ukrainian legislation with European Union directives. The development process incorporated elements of artificial intelligence to augment data accessibility and streamline analytical processes for users. The CSO supports these advancements, underscoring the importance of transparency and citizen engagement. Furthermore, CHESNO noted that the official website of the Verkhovna Rada stands out as the most viewed among all parliamentary websites globally, boasting over 7.7 million views in December 2023.
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Center for Civil Liberties Discusses UN International Court Rulings on Ukraine’s Lawsuits Against Russia
On February 5, the Center for Civil Liberties hosted a press briefing titled “UN International Court Decision on Ukraine’s Lawsuit against Russia: Victory or Defeat?” Participants discussed the recent UN International Court rulings on Ukraine’s legal actions against Russia, focusing on allegations of terrorism financing, discrimination in Crimea, and possible acts of genocide. The event aimed to analyze the ramifications for human rights and Ukraine’s international legal strategies, while also discussing methods to enhance the collection of evidence for rights violations.
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Center for Innovation Development Calls for Participation in E-Democracy Module Development
The Center for Innovations Development invites interested individuals to participate in a survey, aimed at shaping the future features of the eDem electronic democracy module in the DREAM reconstruction management system. The insights gathered from the survey will be considered during the design of mechanisms for transparent and democratic participation in the reconstruction management process and in drafting the technical specifications for the eDem module.
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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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What We Read
G7 Ambassadors’ Support Group for Ukraine Priorities for 2024
In 2024, the G7 Ambassadors’ Support Group intends to continue to support the Ukrainian Government and people’s domestic reform efforts, especially in the fields of anti-corruption, justice system reform, decentralisation, and promotion of democracy and the rule of law, which are crucial for Ukraine’s resilience, reconstruction, and recovery, and for pursuing its European path and integration into the Euro-Atlantic community. Push the button to read the document and learn more on the Group`s priorities for 2024 to deepen the EU – Ukraine relationship.
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