Young people’s citizenship activity in times of war threat: Case of Ukraine

Abstract This article explores passive, semi-active and active citizenship among young Ukrainians, empirically revealed using the Citizenship Behavior Questionnaire. The questionnaire was administered to 371 pupils aged 11, 14, and 17–18 years. This empirical study is introduced through a socio-political and educational description of the current situation in Ukraine, as well as some historical background. Citizenship education in Ukraine is taught through all subjects and takes the form of national-patriotic education, which is justified by the prevalent political conditions: namely, annexation of Crimea and war in the east of Ukraine. The peculiarities of higher education in Ukraine are reviewed as well as the results of studies concerning patriotism, citizenship and political participation among Ukrainian youth. For our empirical study we have chosen passive, semi-active and active citizenship as dimensions, and the following sub-dimensions for analysis: national identity, patriotism, loyalty, civic virtues, social activity, political activity, personal activity, and action for change. Boys and girls do not differ significantly in terms of citizenship behaviour in Ukraine. At the same time there are significant differences in some citizenship dimensions and sub-dimensions on the basis of place of residence and age. In general, Ukrainian youth reveal high passive and semi-active citizenship behaivour, but low active citizenship, indicating to us the presence of potential but unwillingness to participate in protest actions for change. Some of the means by which the level of citizenship activity can be enhanced are increasing one’s interest in political media and media literacy and preventing destructive media effects. These means can be implemented through media education with special attention to citizenship.