Elites and masses in the political process in Ukraine since 1991¹

The author expresses the deepest gratitude to Professor Wlodiemierz Wesolowski from the Polish Academy of Sciences for inspiring discussions and valuable advise in the preparation of this article.

Abstract

This article analyses the political process in the present day Ukraine with a focus on the ruling elites and masses and attempts to explain what keeps the country from successful transition. It is argued that the mere existence of the formal attributes of democracy such as elections and party system are not enough. The nature of the social relation, inherited by Ukraine from socialist rule and the deeply ingrained behaviour and value system of both masses and elites is one of the major factors hindering democratisation. To substantiate this claim, the article examines the public stances, attitudes, composition, and character of the ruling elite, and the institutions through which it exerts its political influence. The final part is devoted to an exploration of the social preconditions for change in light of the recent political events connected with the rise of the opposition.

Notes

The author expresses the deepest gratitude to Professor Wlodiemierz Wesolowski from the Polish Academy of Sciences for inspiring discussions and valuable advise in the preparation of this article.