Can Ukraine Escape Pluralism by Default?

Abstract

Since gaining independence in 1991, Ukraine has suffered from significant levels of corruption, stalemate, and failed efforts at reform. In the 1990s, Ukraine was seen as one of the most corrupt countries in the world, plagued with hyperinflation and stalled reforms. During that time, it experienced one of the lowest growth rates in all of Eastern Europe. Such dysfunction was due in part to weak institutions as well as regional divisions and a strong communist party in the East that consistently blocked reforms.