By definition, a “democracy” thrives or dies according to the will of the people, and in Ukraine, it’s the people who have made all the difference. In the second episode of this in-depth miniseries, “Defending Democracy”, we look at the Ukrainians and what they have endured to maintain a modern, democratic society in the midst of Russia’s attack.
Three co-chairs of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine’s Equal Opportunity Caucus share their personal memories from the first few days of Russia’s full-scale invasion of their nation and the dedication they have shown to keep the lights on in parliament no matter what. These thoughtful women also detail the paradigm shift taking over Ukraine’s society while more than 50,000 women are fighting on the frontlines. Plus, they share one, unusual idea they have for helping Ukrainian families, which might even shock you.
Plus, the Honorable Mayor of Mykolaiv Oleksandr Syenkevych seems like he could be the star of a Hollywood movie except that he’s the real-life, elected mayor of the city nicknamed “City of Heros.” Together he and the citizens of Mykolaiv have survived some of the worst bombings of this war while stopping Russian Armed Forces from advancing beyond their strategically located city on the Black Sea. In fact, the invaders have destroyed nearly everything in Mykolaiv except the people’s dedication to democracy and their will to thrive.
Democracy! The Podcast is brought to you by the Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening (CEPPS) with support from the United States Agency for International Development through the Democratic Elections and Political Processes Award.
Find this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and the player below:
