The Social Transformation of Ukraine

The ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine has profoundly impacted the European peace and security architecture. Growing securitization of policy-making underscores the need for a progressive answer that must extend beyond the threat of military confrontation to strengthen societal resilience, enabling communities across Europe to withstand the complexities of hybrid threats. As the war continues to unfold on the battlefield, it is essential to consider the long-term implications for Ukraine and broader Europe, prioritizing not only immediate military needs but also thinking about just and sustainable recovery, allowing to return to the foundations of European integration as a successful peace project.

In this context, social democrats have a unique responsibility, drawing on their knowledge and experience, to promote a sustainable peace in wider Europe which faces an increasingly polarized and volatile geopolitical reality. A vision of peace which goes beyond defense capabilities and military expenditure, recognizing the importance of protecting the social fabric of society. With its potential to become a regulatory sandbox for Europe, and as a country at the forefront of change and innovation, Ukraine presents a unique opportunity for Europe to reimagine its future. Through the analytical series “Progressive Ukraine” and a book “Europe and the war in Ukraine: From Russian aggression to a new Eastern policy” (2023) we want to show that social democrats can help Ukraine build a resilient and prosperous society, serving as a beacon for a more just and equitable Europe.  Such transformation must prioritize the well-being of all citizens, fostering a proactive state that protects by addressing security needs, balancing social, industrial, and technological progress with equality and sustainability.

The Foundation for European Progressive Studies (FEPS) and its partners, FES (Ukraine), Amicus Europae (Poland), Karl Renner Institut (Austria), Kelevi Sorsa Foundation (Finland), Foundation Max van der Stoel (the Netherlands) and Fondation Jean Jaurès (France) contribute to this discussion, fostering informed dialogue on Ukraine’s future in Europe.

The expert meeting will be divided into three sessions:

• From a Country at War to Sustainable Peace: Making Case for a Progressive Ukraine
• On a Path to EU Membership: Addressing Social Policy Challenges in Ukraine’s Reconstruction
• Leaving No One Behind: advancing gender equality and inclusion in the reconstruction of Ukraine

For more information regarding this event, please do not hesitate to contact Thainá Leite, Project Management Coordinator, at thaina.leite@feps-europe.eu.