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Returning Veterans’ Attitudes Toward Democracy: Evidence From a Survey of Ukraine’s ATO Veterans

Author

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  • Konstantin Ash
  • Miroslav Shapovalov

Abstract

How is service history associated with returning veterans' attitudes about democracy? Existing research predicts pro-government militia veterans have less support for democracy because of political efficacy gained from service and divergent policy preferences from the general population. We test that theory in Ukraine through surveys of both returning veterans and the general population between 2019 and 2022. Our findings differ from predictions. Veterans who joined the armed forces as volunteers were more supportive of democracy as an institution than ordinary Ukrainians. At the same time, Army volunteers, as well as veterans who were drafted into the armed forces and veterans who were rejected from the armed forces and joined pro-government militias were more likely to be dissatisfied with democracy. In-depth interviews reveal both those rejected from the armed forces and army conscripts opposed democracy because they felt rampant draft evasion made civilians unqualified to make political decisions.

Suggested Citation

  • Konstantin Ash & Miroslav Shapovalov, 2025. "Returning Veterans’ Attitudes Toward Democracy: Evidence From a Survey of Ukraine’s ATO Veterans," Journal of Conflict Resolution, Peace Science Society (International), vol. 69(5), pages 763-792, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:jocore:v:69:y:2025:i:5:p:763-792
    DOI: 10.1177/00220027241269980
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Risa Brooks & Sharan Grewal, 2022. "“Twice the Citizen†: How Military Attitudes of Superiority Undermine Civilian Control in the United States," Journal of Conflict Resolution, Peace Science Society (International), vol. 66(4-5), pages 623-650, May.
    2. Acemoglu,Daron & Robinson,James A., 2009. "Economic Origins of Dictatorship and Democracy," Cambridge Books, Cambridge University Press, number 9780521671422.
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