Socio-political challenges of the Ukrainian (post-)war reality and the phenomenon of civic maturity

The full-scale war in Ukraine has created unique conditions for the transformation of political culture and the development of civil society, thereby actualising the study of the phenomenon of civic maturity as a response to the existential challenges of modernity. The purpose of this study was to identify the key manifestations of the civic maturity of Ukrainian society in the context of war and the post-war reality, as well as to analyse its relationship with political culture and the European vector of development. The study adopted a comprehensive approach encompassing qualitative and quantitative research methods, analysis of scientific sources, documentary analysis, and the comparative historical method. Findings indicated that Ukrainian society demonstrates an extraordinary level of civic maturity through the mass mobilisation of volunteers, high patriotism, and a heightened level of citizens’ political awareness. It was established that the phenomenon of civic maturity manifests itself through four interrelated dimensions: civic consciousness, mobilisation, activism, and responsibility. Particular attention was paid to the risks of democratic collapse, including the strengthening of executive power, the decline in pluralism, civil liberties, political competition, and public control, as well as the postponement of democratic procedures during the war. It was further analysed that European integration plays a key role in shaping a positive scenario for Ukraine’s future, providing institutional frameworks and value orientations. It was concluded that the European horizon and civic maturity mutually reinforce each other, creating the basis for successful democratic development. The results of the study can be used by political scientists, sociologists, and public administration specialists to develop strategies for the advancement of civil society and democratic institutions in the post-war period