Demarcation Lines in the Ukrainian Society: Genesis, Structure, Overcoming

Abstract

The subject of the study is the lines of demarcation in the Ukrainian society, which affect its ability for self-organization and development. The methodological paradigm of the search is the Lipset-Rokkan model, which has been successfully tested in the analysis of political changes in European countries. The peculiarities of the origin and development of such fundamental social oppositions are highlighted: center-periphery, state-church, city-village, owner-worker. Their content was dramatically influenced by the colonial position of Ukraine in the Russian Empire (in all its historical forms). The consequences of such influence are still being felt in Russia’s aggressive intentions to leave Ukraine in its sphere of influence, the destructive role of the Russian Orthodox Church, the formation of anti-state movements and structures, and so on. The destructive effect of such influence can be traced in the potential threat of transforming traditional lines of demarcation in the so-called “Red” lines of opposition. These are artificial constructs that feed on the invasive policy of the aggressor and are aimed at introducing states of chaos and disorder into Ukrainian society, with the prospect of undermining and destroying the statehood and identity of Ukraine in general. In this context, the strategic vectors of Ukraine’s sustainable development are the reorientation to European values, comprehensive support of national culture and spirituality, implementation of the full-fledged land reform, creation of a national labor market, legalization of the shadow economy, establishment of the national security system. The political and legal basis for such changes should be the synergetic interaction of the democratic development of the society and the establishment of the rule of law in the activities of citizens and the state.