Over three decades of independence, Ukrainians have consistently defended their democracy against threats both external and internal. The “Revolution of Dignity” in 2014 demonstrated the Ukrainian commitment to democratic reforms and a closer relationship with the West. Most recently, the brutal full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 has reinforced Ukrainian support for the country’s democratic future, according to NDI’s public opinion research. 

In addition to the war, the country faces substantial political and economic challenges. These include: establishing anti-corruption mechanisms; adopting political and electoral reforms; pursuing inclusive and democratic reconstruction; safeguarding political pluralism; and providing continued support to women, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, and other marginalized groups as they participate in public life both during and after the war.

NDI has supported Ukraine’s democratic development from the earliest days of its independence.  Over the past 30 years, the Institute has developed broad and deep relationships with government representatives, national and local leaders of parties across the political spectrum, and a broad network of civic actors. At present, NDI is implementing programs with support from Global Affairs Canada (GAC), the National Endowment for Democracy (NED),  the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida), the United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO), the United States Department of State’s Bureau for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor (DRL), and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).