POLITICS

Statement of the SD Platform on Political Trust and the Voice of Youth

The SD Platform is one of the few independent youth organizations in Ukraine that has been consistently engaged in political education, democratic participation, and the development of a new generation of leaders since 2012. With the support of international partners, we have reached tens of thousands of young people across the country. Some of them already hold active roles in public authorities, local government, civil society, and politics.

Young people have become one of the most vulnerable groups in the context of full-scale Russian aggression. The constant threat to life, a deep sense of uncertainty, personal loss, and the challenges of mobilization and the front line are drastically reshaping their life priorities. Thousands of young people have already joined Ukraine’s defense forces. Their voice—like that of the wider youth—must be heard, especially when it comes to domestic political decisions that raise serious concerns.

As an organization working at the intersection of civic engagement, political education, and international solidarity, we cannot remain silent when important legislative decisions—such as those concerning the independence of anti-corruption institutions—are adopted or reversed without transparent communication with society. Transparency and openness are the foundation of public trust in state institutions, particularly among young people.

We firmly believe that building trust in government, parliament, and anti-corruption bodies is key to creating an environment in which young Ukrainians see a future in their own country and are motivated to contribute to its reconstruction. If the state is truly interested in strengthening its human capital and renewing its political culture, it cannot ignore the youth’s demand for justice, transparency, and inclusion.

Our European partners are closely watching the domestic developments in Ukraine through the lens of European integration. For many years, we have been in constant cooperation with social-democratic forces across Europe, building long-term support for Ukraine and promoting the idea of a just recovery rooted in the values of democracy, equality, and accountability.
Therefore, we call for:

1. Ensuring a transparent, inclusive, and timely dialogue with society on all major legislative initiatives;

2. Guaranteeing an effective fight against high-level corruption as a core condition for Ukraine’s EU accession and a pillar of public trust;

3. Ending the clashes between law enforcement agencies — society needs coordination and results, not a battle for influence;

4. Strengthening the role of parliament in the decision-making process, as an institution that should rely on expert assessments, ensure a balance of interests, and uphold political accountability;

5. Fostering a new political culture—one grounded in values, with examples of progressive leadership capable of meeting society’s call for justice, equality, and dignity.
Ukrainian youth must not be treated as mere subjects of policy but as active participants in shaping change. At SD Platform, we remain committed to ensuring that this voice is strong, reasoned, and reflected in decision-making processes.
28.07.2025, Kyiv

SD Platform
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