On June 3, the second day of the conference “The Common Good: Values and Meanings Around Which the Reconstruction of Ukraine Is Possible”, featured a profound and open discussion panel with representatives of Ukrainian youth and civil society organizations.
The meeting, which brought together young activists, experienced experts, religious leaders, and dialogue facilitators, became a platform for addressing some of the most challenging issues facing Ukraine during wartime.
The central theme of the discussion was the search for values capable of consolidating Ukrainian society and overcoming its internal divisions. Participants openly addressed the issues of artificial polarization, social “bubbles,” and the dangerous tendency to seek internal enemies based on labels such as “served in the military vs. did not serve,” “draft evader vs. volunteer,” “left the country vs. stayed,” and similar distinctions.
During the panel, speakers focused on several key topics:
The Psychology and Historical Causes of Division
Participants noted that Ukrainians have historically become accustomed to living under constant threats and conditions of survival. This has fostered pragmatism and a focus on individual self-preservation.
To move toward synergy and work for the common good, society critically lacks a sense of long-term security and sufficient resources.
Narratives for the Unity of Ukrainian Orthodoxy
Special attention was devoted to the role of religion in social consolidation.
Participants discussed specific approaches and narratives that could contribute to greater unity within the Orthodox community in Ukraine. Young participants demonstrated a clear awareness of the security risks associated with tolerating hostile influences, particularly pro-Russian ones, through church structures.
At the same time, those present emphasized the importance of distinguishing between polarization artificially imposed from outside and genuine worldview differences, which can only be overcome through difficult but necessary dialogue among ordinary people.
Real Sociology and the Attitudes of Young People
Representatives of civil society organizations shared the results of recent sociological research.
According to the data presented, approximately 40–50% of teenagers aged 14–18 firmly intend to remain in Ukraine. Another significant group hopes to study abroad but plans to return afterward.
At the same time, the most active and socially engaged youth constitute approximately 20–25% of the younger generation.
Motivation to Enter Public Service and Politics
Young panel participants, including representatives of anti-corruption and youth organizations, expressed their willingness to take responsibility and pursue careers in public service.
Their goal is to reform the outdated institutional design of the state, combat corruption, and create transparent conditions in which people are regarded as the highest value, despite the relatively low starting salaries often associated with government work.
Finding a Balance Between Idealism and Financial Sustainability
A separate discussion focused on how young leaders can avoid burnout while working in volunteer and social initiatives.
Participants explored models of passive income generation and ethical entrepreneurship that can provide financial independence while enabling continued service to local communities.
“We cannot merely theorize about the kind of country we want young people to inherit. We must listen to how they themselves envision it. The current generation is already learning to think critically, participate in political life, and rebuild Ukraine not by simply copying Europe, but by creating its own unique and effective system,” the panel participants concluded.
The discussion demonstrated that despite the hardships, wartime trauma, and economic challenges, Ukrainian youth continue to display a high level of awareness, responsibility, and commitment. They are ready to become a driving force for dialogue and meaningful change within the country.
The conference was held within the framework of the project “Youth for the Future of Ukraine: Dialogue, Research, and Creative Media Work for the Consolidation of Ukrainian Society and Orthodoxy,” implemented on the initiative of the NGO “Sofiyske Bratstvo” (St. Sophia Brotherhood) with the support of zivik/IFA (German Federal Foreign Office), the Academic Initiative Charitable Foundation, the Kyiv Aviation Institute, the Foundation in Memory of His Beatitude Metropolitan Volodymyr, and with the participation of the Youth Parliament of Ukraine.
