The existential threat of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation has forcefully reordered and narrowed immediate national political priorities. It has also reshaped the convictions, values and visions that underpin the reconstruction and recovery processes and the future of Ukraine.

In times of crisis, members of parliament (MPs) are expected to actively and effectively manage public life in response to existential risks, making decisions that impact the lives of women and men, civilians and military personnel alike. Yet MPs are not immune to the personal trauma of war and are forced to balance this with their public role as political decision-makers in a time of national emergency. 

This research offers a rare window into how MPs in Ukraine are navigating these impossible pressures. It captures their evolving priorities, ambitions, fears and hopes in the fourth year of the full-scale Russian aggression. Although the national defence effort has strengthened the executive under martial law, MPs have been actively holding on to a bold vision for the future. Many share a desire not just to rebuild, but to transform the country. 

The findings from this report are intended to inform programmes and initiatives that aim to support Ukraine in protecting its democratic gains and consolidating reforms whilst it continues to withstand Russian aggression and embarks on the EU accession process.

Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD) is proud to support the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine and its members as they navigate these processes. We stand with Ukraine and its parliament in this moment of profound resilience and reinvention. We thank the Members of Parliament who participated in this study amid air sirens, devastation, power cuts and uncertainty. We are grateful to the research team for their dedication and conflict-responsive research approaches.