The Sociological Service of the Razumkov Center conducted a survey as part of the Public Activity Promotion Program “Join!” funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented by Pact in Ukraine. The survey was carried out from September 20 to 26, 2024, covering 2,016 respondents aged 18 and older across 22 regions of Ukraine and Kyiv.
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Methodology
The survey employed a face-to-face method in regions controlled by the Ukrainian government. A stratified multi-stage sampling technique was used, reflecting the demographic structure of the adult population as of early 2022. The theoretical sampling error does not exceed 2.3%.
Participation in the “National Cashback” Program
Launched in September 2024, the “National Cashback” program allows citizens to receive a 10% reimbursement on the cost of Ukrainian goods. At the time of the survey, 21% of adults had already registered a bank card to participate in the program.
Participation rates increase with respondents’ income levels: from 14% among those who “struggle to make ends meet” to 24.5% among those who are “well-off.” Educational levels also influence participation, with only 12% of older individuals (aged 60 and above) participating, compared to 22% to 29% in other age groups.
Reasons for Non-Participation
Among those not participating in the program, 40% cited a lack of information as the main reason. Other reasons include:
- 14% believe participation offers no benefits.
- 8% have not yet registered for a card but plan to do so.
- 5% do not understand how to register for the card.
- 2% find the participation process too complicated.
- 2% do not use bank cards at all.
Regional and Socioeconomic Differences
Non-participation due to a lack of information is more frequently noted by residents of the Southern (53.5%) and Western (47%) regions. Individuals with lower education levels, as well as those in the oldest age group and people with low incomes, are more likely to cite this reason.
Among residents of villages and small towns, 47% point to a lack of information, compared to 36% of urban residents. Higher income levels are associated with the belief that participation in the program will offer no benefits, particularly 18% among the affluent.
Conclusions
The survey results highlight the importance of informational campaigns to raise citizen awareness about support programs. Given that many people do not participate due to a lack of information, expanding educational initiatives could be a crucial step toward improving public engagement.
