Kharkiv is a city of resilience. More than 70% of its residents believe the city's strength comes from the defenders protecting it and utility workers (67%) who keep Kharkiv clean and accessible despite challenging conditions. Rescue workers, firefighters, and medical staff (63%) also play a crucial role, responding swiftly to the aftermath of shelling. At the same time, a significant portion of respondents (51%) believe that the spirit and daily efforts of ordinary Kharkiv residents are also key factors in the city’s resilience.
These insights come from the "Kharkiv – Point of Gravity" research, conducted by experts from the non-governmental organization "Research Bureau Sociologist" with the support of ISAR Ednannia. The research analyzes the involvement of residents in the life and rebuilding of the city, their self-identity, points of solidarity and divergence among different groups of citizens, as well as their expectations, fears, and hopes for Kharkiv's future.
Ukraine Civil Society Sectoral Support Activity enabled this research. Through the Activity, civil society organizations can explore topics most relevant to Ukrainians, including war-damaged infrastructure restoration, humanitarian aid, the European integration process, national identity, and local partnerships development.
As for a self-identity, "Kharkiv – Point of Gravity" reveals that residents see themselves as courageous, resilient, educated, hardworking, open, and kind individuals who maintain a sense of humor even in harsh times. The vast majority (86%) believe that a rebuilt Kharkiv will be even better, and express a strong intention to remain in the city after the war. The research also highlights the patriotism of Kharkiv's residents, their ingenuity, problem-solving mindset, and a powerful sense of mutual support.
You can read the full text of the research at the ISAR Ednannia Analytical Library.
ISAR Ednannia plans to introduce you to interesting researches every week, conducted with the generous support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) within the Ukraine Civil Society Sectoral Support Activity implemented by ISAR Ednannia in partnership with the Ukrainian Center of Independent Political Research (UCIPR) and Centre for Democracy and Rule of Law (CEDEM).
