Ukraine

Freedom House Programs in Ukraine

Democracy, human rights and fundamental freedoms in Ukraine are seriously challenged by the grinding military conflict in the country’s east (Donbas), Russia’s occupation and de facto control of Crimea, widespread impunity for human rights abuses, and slow reform in key areas, such as the security and justice sectors. At the same time, the flourishing of civil society, major reforms since the Euromaidan revolution, and a vibrant media demonstrate Ukraine’s promise as an open and pluralistic democracy. As Ukraine struggles with the challenge of building its democracy in the face of significant threats, Freedom House works with an array of partners to mobilize their efforts to resist censorship, advocate in support of human rights and good governance, conduct public oversight over the law-enforcement and security sector, and protect activists and journalists from persecution and violence. Freedom House provides needed support to civic advocates, including LGBT+ people, human-rights defenders, citizen journalists, and religious and ethnic minorities.

Current projects:

• Expanding Allies for LGBT+ Rights in Ukraine
• Strengthening Champions for Free Expression in Ukraine in a Time of Conflict
• Security Services Under Civic Oversight in Ukraine
• United to Confront Hate-Motivated Violence in Ukraine
• Monitoring Human Rights in Eastern Ukraine During the Coronavirus Pandemic

Learn more by visiting our Eurasia program page.