Impacts of Ethnic Solidarty: Evidence from Ukraine

• In Event: Ukraine and Ethnic Relations

Abstract

Ethnic coherence is considered an important force that allows ethnic groups to effectively collectively act, yet Ukrainian ethnic coherence has been considered at times tenuous. To assess the tensions and potential effectiveness of Ukrainian ethnicity, scholars have typically employed singular dimensions of ethnic coherence such as ethnolinguistic identity, language usage, or region. These approaches can downplay the multidimensional nature of ethnic coherence. To address this concern, I leverage a multidimensional theory of Ukrainian ethnic coherence and its impact on political preferences with two nationally representative surveys of Ukrainians during 2023 and 2024. The analysis employed four robust dimensions of ethnic coherence: myths of origin and fate, symbols of territory, language as a community symbol, and traditions of collective action. Ethnic coherence had a significant impact on policy preferences, including preferences for joining the European Union, territorial concessions and commitments, and usage of the Russian language.

Author

• Scott G. Feinstein, Iowa State University