Democracy Promotion in Wartime: Commitment of Polish NGOs in Ukraine

• In Event: Societal responses to the Russian war: grassroots initiatives’ and NGOs’ engagement in Poland and Ukraine

Abstract

Democracy promotion has become a defining feature of Poland's foreign policy, transitioning from a major recipient of assistance during its own post-communist transformation to a notable donor (Chimiak 2016; Kucharczyk and Lovitt 2008; Szent-Iványi and Lightfoot 2015; Ociepka 2017; Petrova 2014; Pospieszna 2014). This paper delves into the multifaceted strategies employed by Poland in promoting democracy, with a specific focus on its eastern neighbors, particularly Ukraine. Rooted in a historical legacy of promoting freedom and representation, Poland's commitment to democracy promotion is deeply intertwined with its security concerns and the belief in the correlation between democracy, economic prosperity, and European Union (EU) membership (Petrova 2012).
This paper starts with Russia’s involvement in Ukraine in 2014, before it launched a full-scale invasion in 2022. Despite challenges, Poland not only sustained but significantly increased its support for Ukraine, allocating substantial financial aid, particularly for democracy initiatives (Petrova and Pospieszna 2021). This unique context prompts critical questions about the prioritization of democracy promotion during war, the effectiveness of external actors in promoting democracy in conflict zones, and the components and strategies that yield optimal results. The empirical contribution of this study lies in understanding the perspectives and strategies of Polish NGOs engaged in democracy promotion in Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict. Drawing on interviews conducted in June and July 2023, the study navigates the normative, theoretical, and empirical dimensions of democracy promotion during war.
Despite the challenges posed by the conflict, Polish NGOs demonstrate an unwavering commitment to democratic values and human rights, employing adaptive strategies to navigate the complex landscape. Their emphasis on civil society development, flexibility, and collaboration distinguishes Poland's approach, offering valuable lessons for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers. The findings shed light on the crucial role of civil society, the need for adaptability, and the significance of regional collaborations in fostering democracy amid adversity (IDEA 2022; Youngs 2022). The paper concludes by emphasizing the relevance of these lessons for an international audience, enhancing our comprehension of democracy promotion during conflict and offering strategic guidance for future endeavors.

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Authors

• Paulina Pospieszna, Adam Mickiewicz University

• Patrice C. McMahon, University of Nebraska Lincoln