Abstract

RESEARCH OBJECTIVE: The aim of the article is to analyze the de-oligarchization phenomenon in Ukraine, taking into account the presidencies of Petro Poroshenko and Volodymyr Zelensky.

THE RESEARCH PROBLEM AND METHODS: The main research problem is to indicate whether a systemic transformation aimed at minimizing the influence of the oligarchs on political and economic life in Ukraine is possible after the Revolution of Dignity? For this purpose, the author uses a comparative method that includes the study of specific events and phenomena. 

THE PROCESS OF ARGUMENTATION: The process of argumentation consists in analyzing the conditions in which the Ukrainian model of oligarchic democracy was shaped after 1991. The second stage of the analysis is to compare the methods of fighting against the oligarchic system in Ukraine undertaken by Petro Poroshenko and Volodymyr Zelensky after the revolution of dignity.

RESEARCH RESULTS: The article concludes that after the Revolution of Dignity, Ukrainian society demanded that the oligarchic influence on political and economic life in the state be minimized. According to the author, Petro Poroshenko, who is an “old” player on the Ukrainian political scene, maintained the existing system of mutual benefits between the government and the oligarchs. In turn, the coming to power of Volodymyr Zelensky, who is considered a “new”, anti-system candidate, initiated a change in this model and the repair of the democratic system in the state.

CONCLUSIONS, INNOVATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS: The author concludes that the implementation of the de-oligarchization plan in Ukraine during the presidency of Petro Poroshenko was primarily a manifestation of this politician's hidden war with specific oligarchs. In turn, Volodymyr Zelensky, despite numerous accusations of cooperation with the oligarchs, has started a comprehensive fight against the destructive oligarchic system, which is a precedent in this respect in Ukraine. As a result of the implementation of the de-oligarchization policy in the Ukrainian state, a new model of relations between the government and the oligarchs is beginning to take shape. This is a novelty that can be used as a reference point for further research on the issue of systemic transformation in Ukraine.