Ukraine's New Generation: How Young Adults Perceive Non-Governmental Organizations

Abstract

This article reports the results of a 2014 research project that documents the attitudes of Ukrainian young adults (under age 31) toward non-governmental organizations (NGOs) with missions in different sectors of society. As an emerging democracy, the importance of a developing civil society structures is being severely tested by the ongoing conflicts in Eastern Ukraine and the continuing tensions with Russia. The 377 respondents used surveymonkey.com between September and December 2014 to complete an anonymous questionnaire. Major findings note modest support for NGOs in all fields: education, human rights, meeting basic needs, and cultural affairs, but participation rates remain low. A reserve of goodwill can help NGOs connect to their next generation of leaders, staff, volunteers and donors.