The European Union has a long history of systematically supporting Ukraine. This assistance is especially tangible amid the difficult conditions of Russian aggression, which only amplifies the challenges for democratic processes. “Democracy thrives with an active civil society, strong democratic practices and diverse political landscape. The EU continues to be an indispensable partner in this regard. The two new EU-funded actions by the Civil Network OPORA and the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance aim to reinforce the resilience, inclusiveness and integrity of Ukraine’s democratic institutions during the post-war transition and advance the country’s progress toward EU membership,” said Katarína Mathernová, Ambassador of the European Union to Ukraine.
As part of this EU-supported initiative, in 2025-2026 Civil Network OPORA is implementing a comprehensive research and analysis program, “Advancing Democratic Integrity and Governance in Ukraine”. The program's goal is to assess the country's readiness for post-war democratic processes. The results will directly contribute to the implementation of Section II.A of the Roadmap ("Free and Fair Elections"). OPORA's legal advisors will provide analytical conclusions on draft legislation regulating the organization of elections in the post-war period.
In addition, OPORA's regional teams will prepare political maps with the analysis of key actors and decision-making mechanisms in each region. To address the specific challenges of the post-war environment, OPORA will also conduct a security audit in twenty selected communities—specifically ones located on the front line and in strategically important areas—to assess the feasibility, risks, and necessary safeguards for the resumption of political processes. The project will also launch an initial study of democratic processes, inclusivity, and accountability. These actions are aimed at collecting evidence, activating the public, and forming clear guidelines for reforms.
"Democracy is not a constant but a process, so reforms must uphold the principle of continuity. In the face of aggression, Ukraine is not only resisting the enemy with the support of its partners but also addressing modern challenges to ensure, among other things, the transparency and effectiveness of democratic processes in the post-war period," said Olga Aivazovska, Chair of the Board of Civil Network OPORA.
Additionally, to educate and engage citizens, OPORA will hold a series of structured dialogues with Ukrainian communities in Germany, Poland, Ireland, Spain, and Italy to discuss barriers to political participation and develop inclusive recommendations. A new season of video interviews titled “The Power of Choice”, featuring OPORA's Chair of the Board, Olga Aivazovska, will be produced, with a focus on democracy, security, and European integration. A separate documentary will also cover the development of democracy in Ukraine since its independence.