UKRAINE’S EUROPEANIZATION IN TURBULENT TIMES: DEMOCRACY AND SECURITY CHALLENGES
Abstract
The article explores the complex process of Ukraine’s Europeanisation amid current geopolitical challenges. The authors examine theoretical approaches to the concept of ‘Europeanisation’, consider the model of ‘external incentives’, and discuss the idea of ‘securitised Europeanisation’. The article highlights the link between democratic reforms and security challenges. In the realm of democracy promotion, Ukrainian society faces challenges caused by the war, such as restrictions on civil liberties and difficulties in conducting elections. In terms of security, Ukraine is enhancing cooperation with the EU, including military support through the European Peace Facility, training Ukrainian military personnel, and collaborating in cybersecurity. Consequently, the authors suggest introducing the term ‘crisis Europeanisation’ to describe the process in which existential threats alter internal receptiveness to external norms.
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