Corruption in Ukraine : a hindrance in the transition to a true democratic state

This paper provides an overview of the current corruption that is plaguing Ukraine's transition from a communist nation to a democratic state. The paper provides a brief history of the Soviet Union's domination over Ukraine and the legacy that was left after its collapse. The paper illustrates the rampant corruption that has emerged in Ukraine since the collapse of the Soviet Union. This corruption has had a devastating impact on the people of Ukraine and its economy. The corruption in Ukraine has spread in almost every segment of society. For instance the corruption has given rise to dishonest elections, a suppressed media, a shadow economy, rogue military leaders, and organized crime elements in the country. This corruption has fallen under the microscope of the international community and is hindering Ukraine's transformation to a true democratic state. The corruption has ultimately impacted legitimacy in the world and has compromised Ukraine's ability to join international organizations such as the European Union (EU) and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).Department of Political ScienceThesis (M.A.