Volunteering in Ukraine during the full-scale war has become one of the key forms of social mobilisation. Research shows that grassroots initiatives are not only responding to the crisis but are also establishing sustainable mechanisms to support the army, the civilian population and state institutions.
volonters_kii_ruh_vseohopna_oboronaThe scale of engagement and the new role of citizens
The volunteer movement in Ukraine has taken on a mass character since the start of the full-scale invasion. According to the results of a nationwide survey, 41% of the population is actively involved in volunteer initiatives.
This involvement goes beyond the traditional understanding of aid. Volunteers perform functions that partly duplicate or reinforce those of state institutions. This includes supplying the military, managing the logistics of humanitarian aid, supporting those affected, and coordinating local initiatives.
The study emphasises that volunteering has become both a direct response by society to the crisis and a tool for strengthening trust between citizens and the state.
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How the volunteer movement is organised
The movement does not have a single centralised structure. It comprises various forms, ranging from informal initiatives to civil society organisations and charitable foundations. This diversity enables it to respond quickly to needs and adapt to change.
The study highlights the overlap between volunteering and civic activism. Some initiatives focus on advocating for the rights of victims, whilst others concentrate on providing practical assistance. These approaches often combine to form comprehensive support.
Associations of families of prisoners of war and missing persons play a distinct role. They operate as civil society movements, defending the rights of their loved ones and engaging with state and international bodies.
An experience that shapes a new social reality
Volunteering transforms not only the support system but also the participants themselves. Some people view this experience as a foundation for future careers in the voluntary sector. Around a quarter of those surveyed plan to apply the skills they have acquired in their work, whilst others intend to move into paid employment.
The traumatic experience of war is being transformed into civic engagement. This creates the potential for long-term change in society, including post-war reconstruction.
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Resources, challenges and legal uncertainty
Despite its scale and effectiveness, the volunteer movement faces a number of challenges. Research highlights limited resources, coordination difficulties and legal uncertainty.
In particular, legislation does not always clearly distinguish between the concepts of volunteering and charity. This affects the regulation of activities, social safeguards and interaction with the state.
The researchers also draw attention to issues of gender representation and the uneven distribution of roles across different segments of the movement.
Volunteering as part of the defence system
The study’s findings highlight a shift in the status of the volunteer movement. It has ceased to be merely a form of assistance and has become an integral part of the national resilience system.
Grassroots initiatives fill the gaps where state mechanisms are unable to respond in time. They are integrated into various spheres — from military support to education and culture.
Participants in the movement effectively act as crisis managers, ensuring the continuity of processes in the difficult conditions of war.
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