Russian-Ukrainian Crisis, National Identity and Democratic Consolidation in Ukraine

The research explores Russian-Ukrainian crisis 2014 in order to see (i) how it has impacted Ukrainian identity split between pro-Western and pro-Russian supporters and (ii) the situation with the process of democratic consolidation in Ukraine. The first research question uses data from public surveys and results of presidential and parliamentary elections 2014 and local elections 2015 in order to demonstrate that Ukrainian national identity has become more consolidated in its commitment to integration with the European Union. At the same time, there has been a significant rise of negative attitude towards Russia even in previously pro-Russian regions. The second research question is concerned with the democratic consolidation in Ukraine and whether resolution of pro-Russian vs. pro-Western identity conflict has resulted in enhanced democracy. In order to assess democratic consolidation in Ukraine the research looks at two main indicators post-crisis political party system and public support of democracy. From the analysis of second research question it can be concluded that democratic consolidation has been facing serious impediments in Ukraine and neither Ukrainian political party system nor political elites can be considered as sources of further consolidation of new regime. Public support of democracy has also slightly wavered by 2016 due to tough economic situation, non-decreasing corruption and lack of trust in politicians