The Evolution of a Patronal Democracy: The Case of Ukraine

About

The 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine has not only endangered Ukraine’s sovereignty but also highlighted the regional power dynamics and the ongoing struggle between autocratic and democratic governance structures in Eastern Europe. This course examines Ukraine’s structural evolution since its independence, providing an essential framework for understanding the contemporary shifts in its political, economic, and social landscape—particularly through the lens of “patronal democracy,” which governs Ukraine’s unique political dynamics.

Led by renowned Eastern European experts and Ukrainian émigré scholars, this course offers a comprehensive exploration of the post-communist challenges Ukraine has faced since independence, delving into themes like oligarchic power structures, regime cycles, and Ukraine’s resilience in the face of both internal and external pressures. Going beyond the conventional “hybrid regime” paradigm, the course introduces interdisciplinary methods tailored to Eurasian contexts, with a focus on informality, patronal politics, and the evolving relationship between governance and national identity. Through lectures and discussions, participants will critically assess Ukraine’s political-economic tendencies and examine the structural consequences of the ongoing war, preparing for an authentic understanding of the forces shaping Ukraine’s future trajectory.

Financial aid is available, in limited numbers.

Course leader

Bálint Magyar & Bálint Madlovics (Democracy Institute, Central European University, Budapest, Hungary)

Target group

Target group:
This interdisciplinary course welcomes those interested in social science fields such as political science, political economy, and sociology. Ideal participants include university students, young researchers, investigative journalists focused on Ukraine, and professionals working in human rights NGOs.

Pre-requisites:
Participants should have a dedicated interest in Eastern European regimes, societies and processes of politics and economy. A background in social sciences, such as political science, sociology, or political economy, is beneficial.

Fee info