Authors

Dariia Synhaievska¹;  ¹ NaUKMA, Ukraine

Discussion

Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) has historically experienced shifts between authoritarianism and democracy. Today, this region is undergoing a profound period of crisis due to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The resilience of democratic regimes, particularly during the war, has been a critical subject in political science. Ukraine’s ability to sustain its democratic processes and institutions amid Russia’s full-scale invasion serves as a powerful example of how democracies can not only survive but adapt and grow stronger under immense external pressure. This paper explores the factors contributing to Ukraine’s democratic resilience, drawing on comparative politics and democratization literature to offer a comprehensive analysis of how democratic regimes maintain resilience in times of war. According to Nancy Bermeo's seminal work on democratic survival, the endurance of democratic regimes depends on a combination of robust institutions, active civil societies, and flexible governance that can adapt to challenges without compromising core democratic principles.Several scholars, including Levitsky and Ziblatt (2018), emphasize the importance of institutional safeguards, such as checks and balances, judicial independence, and free media, in preventing democratic backsliding during crises. These elements help democracies resist authoritarian tendencies that can emerge during emergencies. Furthermore, the concept of adaptive governance—introduced by Boin et al. (2005) — highlights how democracies can adjust their responses to crises by fostering cooperation between governmental institutions, civil society, and international actors. Ukraine’s democratic resilience during the war with Russia can be understood through several key factors: strong political institutions, a mobilized civil society, international support, and the role of national identity. Ukraine’s vibrant civil society has played a pivotal role in its democratic resilience. As noted by scholars such as Putnam (2000) and Carothers (2016), a strong civil society acts as a buffer during times of crisis, fostering social cohesion and political engagement. CSOs in Ukraine have been instrumental in providing humanitarian aid, supporting IDPs, and facilitating volunteer networks that contribute to both military and civilian efforts. This grassroots mobilization has reinforced democratic participation, even in the face of war. The role of international actors in sustaining Ukraine’s democratic resilience cannot be overstated, including the one assisted by the UK. Levitsky and Way (2010) argue that international linkage and leverage are key to preventing authoritarian backsliding, as external support can create incentives for democratic behavior and constrain undemocratic actions. The lessons learned from Ukraine’s experience could help in strengthening democratic governance in times of war.