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The
research explores Russian-Ukrainian crisis 2014 in order to see (i) how
it has impacted Ukrainian identity split between pro-Western and
pro-Russian supporters and (ii) the situation with the process of
democratic consolidation in Ukraine. The first research question uses
data from public surveys and results of presidential and parliamentary
elections 2014 and local elections 2015 in order to demonstrate that
Ukrainian national identity has become more consolidated in its
commitment to integration with the European Union. At the same time,
there has been a significant rise of negative attitude towards Russia
even in previously pro-Russian regions. The second research question is
concerned with the democratic consolidation in Ukraine and whether
resolution of pro-Russian vs. pro-Western identity conflict has resulted
in enhanced democracy. In order to assess democratic consolidation in
Ukraine the research looks at two main indicators post-crisis political
party system and public support of democracy. From the analysis of
second research question it can be concluded that democratic
consolidation has been facing serious impediments in Ukraine and neither
Ukrainian political party system nor political elites can be considered
as sources of further consolidation of new regime. Public support of
democracy has also slightly wavered by 2016 due to tough economic
situation, non-decreasing corruption and lack of trust in politicians.
