Reasons for ukrainian resistance to the russian invasion (Volunteers as an important driver of the development of civil society in Ukraine)

It is not necessary to explain that any phenomenon has its own reason. Why were Ukrainians demonstrated themself indomitable in defending their homeland? A question that worries many in Ukraine and abroad, both friends and enemies. Without pretending to be comprehensive, the article argues that the reasons for the resiliance of Ukrainians lie primarily in their primordial desire for freedom and independence, the ability to help each other, and their self-sacrifice and self-organization skills. The events of recent years forced a significant part of Ukrainian society to become truly "caring citizens", and the volunteer movement received national support and spread throughout the territory of Ukraine. Mass and diverse volunteering experience became a valuable asset for almost the majority of Ukrainians and actually initiated the formation of a new common collective memory. In turn, it is the basis for the further development of civic consciousness and the creation of a new political nation based on new narratives, common values and goals. The value and importance of the social and political activity of volunteers, the great credit of trust in them, the massive involvement of citizens of different ages and social affiliations creates a favorable environment for the formation of a new generation of social and political figures. In addition to their delivery and relief functions, volunteers play an important role in strengthening political engagement between civil society and public officials. It was the volunteers who forced the Ukrainian authorities to intensify the dialogue with civil society, which helps to increase the level of trust of citizens in the authorities on the one hand and the level of responsibility of the authorities to civil society on the other. As a result, the effectiveness of their interaction has increased significantly. Today's volunteers are citizens with the highest rating of public trust, which makes them highly visible and influential political figures at the regional and national levels