As Russian threat to Ukraine grows, it is more important than ever that democracies stand together

If there is one defining event in 2022 that symbolises the struggle between autocracy and democracy, it is Russian President Vladimir Putin’s threats to Ukraine.

This is not just about the possible military invasion of a sovereign state. It is the blatant menace to a democracy that has made considerable strides over the last 20 years.

International IDEA’s own Global State of Democracy indices show that Ukraine outperforms much of the region, joining the group of mid-performing democracies a few years ago.

These indices are not just academic. They tell a real story about a country’s path towards democracy. They show that Ukraine has been willing to break with its past by holding clean elections, protecting media integrity, and fighting corruption.

They show a country that has chosen the path to democracy and the EU rather than the combination of autocracy and kleptocracy represented by Russia.

This is why Ukraine has suffered from Russian aggressions over the last eight years, from the annexation of Crimea and the war in Donbas, to cyberattacks and the intimidation of journalists, human rights defenders and civil society.

And yet, this is a country where citizens, politicians and activists continue to work together to cement democratic values. Polls show that Ukrainians want more democracy, not less.

Putin wants to suppress this democratic energy on his doorstep. History shows that democratic vibrancy is often contagious among neighbours.

For years, International IDEA and our partners have supported civil society to advance democracy in Ukraine and we will continue to do so.

Today as the threat of military aggression rises, it is more important than ever that democracies stand together.

At this dangerous moment, let it be known that International IDEA stands with the Ukrainian people, with their sovereignty, with their right to a peaceful coexistence with their neighbours, and, above all, with their just aspirations for democracy.

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Видео As Russian threat to Ukraine grows, it is more important than ever that democracies stand together канала International IDEA