Challenges of Holding Elections in Wartime Ukraine
The prospect of elections in Ukraine during the ongoing conflict presents significant challenges, according to political expert Kateryna Odarchenko. In her article for CEPA, Odarchenko discusses the immense risks and complexities involved in organizing a democratic process in a country at war.
Recent polling reveals that only 15% of Ukrainians support elections while the war is ongoing, with 69% preferring President Zelenskyy to remain in office until martial law ends. This widespread sentiment underscores concerns about security, voter displacement, and the integrity of the election process.
“Conducting elections under the current conditions would be one of the most complex democratic exercises in modern history,” said Kateryna Odarchenko, political consultant and president of the PolitA Institute for Democracy and Development. “With millions displaced, occupied territories without representation, and the ongoing threat of foreign interference, Ukraine must first implement key electoral reforms to ensure a fair and legitimate process.”
She highlights several key obstacles:
Despite these challenges, Odarchenko believes elections could still play a crucial role in maintaining political dialogue and countering Russian disinformation. However, she emphasizes that essential reforms must be implemented first. These reforms include securing fair media access, ensuring representation for displaced citizens, and protecting against external influence.
“The international community must recognize the extraordinary difficulties Ukraine faces,” said Odarchenko. “Pressuring the country into premature elections could undermine the very democracy we seek to protect.”
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