Today, as we mark the anniversary of the Ukrainian Constitution, adopted in 1996, we recognize the significance of upholding the democratic principles enshrined in this foundational document. As Ukraine confronts the challenges of a brutal war, civil society has emerged as a vital force in safeguarding our constitutional rights and democratic values.
In this newsletter, we explore Ukrainians’ attitudes towards democracy, share updates from our partners dedicated to securing Ukraine’s democratic future, and highlight our job and grant opportunities. Join us on this reading journey!
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What is the preferred system of government for Ukrainians and has their opinion changed from the beginning of the war? According to a survey conducted by the Razumkov Center, the number of Ukrainians who believe that democracy is the best form of government for Ukraine has increased to 73% in 2023, compared to 54% in 2021. Moreover, more respondents (64% in 2023, up from 40% in 2021) envision Ukraine’s future as a highly developed, democratic, and influential European country. Regarding Ukraine’s current democratic status, 18% of respondents consider Ukraine a fully democratic state, and 67% in 2023 (52% in 2021) acknowledge that Ukraine is not yet fully democratic but making progress in that direction.
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Civil Society News
Civil Society Organizations Urge NATO Leaders to Invite Ukraine to Join the Alliance
New Europe Center and Ukrainian civil society organizations appeal to NATO leaders to extend an invitation for Ukraine to join the Alliance. NEC believes such a commitment would be instrumental in ending Russia’s aggression, preventing future attacks, supporting Ukraine’s democratic progress, and facilitating post-war reconstruction through partnerships with NATO member states.
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Transparency International Ukraine Develops Recommendations to Strengthen Anti-Corruption Measures to Safeguard the Recovery
To enhance anti-corruption efforts for transparent reconstruction, Transparency International Ukraine (TIU) recommends the following measures:
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Strengthen state anti-corruption bodies’ institutional capacity and independence.
- Continue implementing judicial and Constitutional Court reforms.
- Ensure asset recovery for post-war reconstruction.
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Improve the effectiveness of the public procurement system.
TIU emphasizes the importance of conducting reconstruction processes with transparency, accountability, and active civil society engagement alongside anti-corruption reform progress.
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Environment People Law Calls for Comprehensive Environmental Reforms with a View to Ukraine’s Recovery
Environment People Law (EPL) issued a statement underscoring the importance of a green recovery and outlined practical steps to achieve it. EPL emphasizes the importance of environmental reforms, harmonizing Ukrainian legislation with Europe`s, and securing Ukraine’s transition to a green and clean energy economy during reconstruction.
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Crimean Tatar Resource Center Urges the President to Recognize Crimean Tatar Flag Day
The Crimean Tatar Resource Center (CTRC) urges the President of Ukraine to officially recognize the Day of the Crimean Tatar Flag as a sign of solidarity with the indigenous people’s struggle for Crimea’s freedom. It is an essential step towards showcasing a just and diverse society and promoting unity among Ukrainians. Join the campaign by tagging the President, using a flag-themed mask, and the hashtag #LIBERATECRIMEA to amplify the message.
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SavED Raises Funds to Equip School Shelters and Educational Facilities
The charitable fund SavED, under the initiative of the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, is initiating a summer fundraising campaign to support schools impacted by the war. The campaign’s primary objective is to secure funds for the construction of more than 15 shelters and educational facilities in schools and kindergartens in the Kharkiv, Mykolaiv, Chernihiv, and Kyiv regions.
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Ukrainian Toronto Television Explores Insights on Ukraine`s Information Landscape in Western Media
An English-language video podcast on YouTube by Ukrainian Toronto Television features Michael Weiss, the renowned investigative journalist, and Russia-ISIS expert, providing insights on Ukraine’s information landscape in Western Media. The podcast discusses coverage of the war along with specific incidents such as the destruction of the Kakhovka dam and the Ukrainian counteroffensive in the Zaporizhzhia region.
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Opportunities
Explore Our Opportunities
We are excited to offer a variety of opportunities for job seekers, civil society actors, and service providers:
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Qualified specialists interested in our job openings are encouraged to review the listings – https://bit.ly/3UKgGN7
- Request for applications for civil society initiatives to provide even greater institutional and project support – https://bit.ly/3GUdk4e
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Grant Competition to Support CSO Research Initiatives
ISAR Ednannia invites civil society organizations with a track record in analytical research to participate in their grant competition. The competition aims to enhance the level of evidence and arguments in the country’s recovery planning, European integration, and the operational functions of CSO during the war. The selection committee will evaluate applications and select winners every month, starting June 2023 and concluding on November 30, 2023.
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What We Read
Providing Long-Term Security for Ukraine: NATO Membership and Other Security Options
As Russia’s unjustified war against Ukraine continues, a critical question will be whether and how NATO should enhance its support for Ukraine at its July summit in Vilnius, Lithuania. This brief evaluates membership and other security options for the alliance and its members to consider.
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