The study “Ukrainian Parliament in Wartime – Key Tendencies and Challenges” examines how the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine has operated under martial law during Russia’s full-scale invasion and explores the key institutional transformations, challenges, and achievements of Ukraine’s parliament during wartime. The research was conducted with the support of the Danube Rectors’ Conference.
What the research highlights:
Institutional resilience under wartime conditions – Despite severe security constraints, the Verkhovna Rada maintained legislative continuity and advanced major reforms.
Transparency under pressure – While parliamentary openness initially declined due to security measures, gradual improvements have been introduced, including the partial restoration of parliamentary access for journalists and renewed communication practices.
EU integration progress – Wartime governance has not slowed Ukraine’s European integration. Legislative planning, compliance review mechanisms, and institutional capacity within Parliament have significantly expanded.
Oversight and accountability challenges – Wartime centralisation temporarily weakened oversight mechanisms, though recent developments indicate gradual recovery and strengthening of parliamentary scrutiny.
Overall, the study demonstrates how Ukraine’s Parliament has balanced security demands with democratic governance while continuing its path toward European standards.
An online event, presenting the study, takes place on 12 February 14:30 CET in English on IDM’s YouTube channel and in Ukrainian on Facebook.
