Public Sentiment on Corruption and Criticism in Ukraine

Recent surveys indicate that a significant majority of Ukrainians, approximately 90%, believe that government authorities should be subject to criticism, even amidst the ongoing war. A poll conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS) from September 19 to October 5, 2025, revealed that 58% of respondents favor "balanced and constructive" criticism to avoid destabilizing the country, while 32% support harsh and uncompromising criticism. Only 8% oppose any criticism of the government. This sentiment follows a backlash against President Volodymyr Zelensky's administration for attempts to undermine the independence of anti-corruption institutions, which sparked protests—the first since the onset of the full-scale war.

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Public perception of corruption in Ukraine has evolved over the past year. In 2024, 48% of respondents believed in genuine anti-corruption efforts, while 47% viewed the country as "hopelessly corrupt." By 2025, those viewing Ukraine as hopelessly corrupt dropped to 40%, with 56% acknowledging real anti-corruption initiatives. This shift reflects a growing optimism, although a substantial portion of the population still harbors negative views about corruption.

The survey results also highlight a correlation between perceptions of corruption and attitudes toward territorial concessions to end the war. Among those who view Ukraine as hopelessly corrupt, 34% would accept recognizing certain territories as part of Russia, compared to 22% among those who believe in genuine anti-corruption efforts. This suggests that negative perceptions of corruption may influence public willingness to compromise on territorial integrity.

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Critics have voiced concerns regarding the effectiveness of Ukraine's anti-corruption bodies, particularly the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU). Political expert Oleh Posternak criticized NABU for allegedly replicating Soviet-era practices and harming public administration. He cited a case involving former Minister Andriy Pyvovarsky, which was closed after ten years due to the expiration of the statute of limitations, as indicative of systemic issues within anti-corruption efforts.

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The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has emphasized the importance of continued anti-corruption reforms in Ukraine, particularly as discussions for a new lending program are underway. IMF officials have noted that strengthening governance and institutions is crucial for Ukraine's long-term stability and recovery.

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• “The narrative of a 'hopelessly corrupt Ukraine' is associated with a higher share of those who are ready for any, even the most difficult, conditions to end the war,” — Anton Hrushetskyi, Executive Director of KIIS

• “Nonsense. Corruption comes precisely from hypocrisy and showy virtue.” — Olha Herasymiuk, Chair of Ukraine’s National Council on Television and Radio Broadcasting

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As Ukraine navigates the complexities of war and governance, public sentiment reflects a nuanced understanding of the balance between criticism and support for authorities. The evolving perceptions of corruption and the effectiveness of anti-corruption measures will play a critical role in shaping the country's future and its resilience in the face of ongoing challenges.

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