Selenskyj plans elections: Democracy despite war in Ukraine?

Selenskyj plans elections: Democracy despite war in Ukraine?

Insider report that Wolodymyr Selenskyj may be aiming for presidential elections in Ukraine this year. The elections for the past year were originally planned, but had to be suspended due to the Russian war of aggression. A possible election date in summer is discussed, especially in connection with conversations about a possible ceasefire. After visiting the United States, Selenskyj's popularity values rose, which could have a good chance of re -election.

The Ukrainian head of state Selenskyj, who has been in office since May 2019, has emphasized that holding a presidential election during the war was not appropriate. In a video message, he said that it was irresponsible to treat the issue of elections in the current crisis carelessly. Political divisions are not helpful at a time when the war lasts.

status of the elections and challenges

diplomats believe that Selenskyj wants to avoid political tensions, which could be important for his position in the peace negotiations with Russia. Nevertheless, there is resistance, like his rival Valerii Zaluzhnyi, who argues that no elections should take place during the war. In addition, Oleh Didenko, the head of the central election commission, explains that the law would have to be changed before elections can be held.

Currently, the Ukrainian war law must be observed, which was imposed after the Russian invasion in February 2022 and only allowed elections after the end of the war. The regular parliamentary elections, which were planned for the end of October 2023, have already been canceled due to the law. Due to the ongoing fights, around 20 percent of the Ukrainian state area is currently occupied by Russian troops.

demographic and political developments

Despite the challenges, the population in Ukraine sees democracy as an undisputed form of government. According to a survey, 94 percent of citizens consider it important that Ukraine will become a functioning democracy. Nevertheless, there is a need to continue to concentrate the state's resources on victory over Russia. This is also emphasized by Western allies such as the USA who are pushing Ukraine to soon hold democratic elections.

In order to advance democracy in Ukraine, the EU approved the admission of accession negotiations in June 2022 and initiated seven reform recommendations that include the rule of law and combating corruption. This progress is particularly important in view of the political scandals and corruption cases that have been uncovered in recent years.

Selenskyj's popularity and his trust within the population have increased, with about 80 percent of the respondents raise trust. The war not only changed the political landscape, but also led to a change in mood among the population. This can be seen, among other things, that consent to an EU accession from 65 percent has increased to 91 percent within just two months after the start of the war.

The Ukrainian president is faced with the challenge of balancing between personal judgment and institutional procedures, while he is facing the complex and uncertain situation in the country. Selenskyj's Technocratic personnel policy brings experts in key positions, which is seen as a step to strengthen democracy in Ukraine. Political development is still strongly influenced by the progress of the war. Laws have been adopted, but it remains to be seen how the situation develops with regard to possible elections.

For Selenskyj, an upcoming choice could not only secure his political future, but also play a crucial role in the ongoing discussions about peace and stability in Ukraine. The considerations of elections and their implementation are therefore of central importance for the coming weeks and months.