From populism to pragmatism: The socio-political legacy of Zelensky's leadership in Ukraine's economic reforms

Tankovsky, Oleg and Ráti, József (2025) From populism to pragmatism: The socio-political legacy of Zelensky's leadership in Ukraine's economic reforms. SOCIETY AND ECONOMY, 2025. pp. 1-21. ISSN 1588-9726 (In Press)

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Abstract

This paper explores the application of populism within the economic and political landscape of Ukraine under President Volodymyr Zelensky. Unlike traditional populist frameworks that may lean towards either left or right-wing economic policies, Zelensky's populism emerges as a hybrid model adapted to Ukraine's complex socio-political environment. By leveraging a centrist populist narrative, Zelensky sought to dismantle oligarchic influence, restore public trust, and implement broad economic reforms. The study critically examines how his populist rhetoric, initially focused on anti-elite and anti-corruption themes, transitioned under the pressures of governance and crisis, especially in light of the 2022 Russian invasion. Through a mix of qualitative and quantitative analysis, this research assesses Zelensky's policy decisions within the populist framework, highlighting both achievements and limitations. Ultimately, the findings reveal the adaptability of populist rhetoric in crisis and its constraints within entrenched political and economic systems. This analysis contributes to a nuanced understanding of how populist leadership can serve as a flexible, yet sometimes conflicting, strategy in achieving governance and reform in post-Soviet states.

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