Civic and Political Values of Residents of the Slovak and Ukrainian Borderlands Before and During the Russian Invasion of Ukraine

Abstract

Study examines the impact of Europeanization on the political attitudes of residents along the Slovak-Ukrainian border (Košice, Prešov, and Zakarpattia) before and during the early phase of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, based on a Delphi survey of experts. Experts agree that residents recognize increased authority in regional governments due to Europeanization but view this development differently. While citizens expect elected authorities to keep them informed about regional policies, Slovak experts noted a lack of enthusiasm from regional elites to involve the public despite existing opportunities for political participation. All experts noted a difference in public perception of regional policy between urban and rural areas. Despite conservative cultural influences that may hinder political participation, EU membership or accession trajectories affect citizens' political orientations. Increasingly, local politicians communicate with residents about development issues, becoming a key aspect of election campaigns. The growth of citizen engagement through NGOs reflects a continued distrust in politicians and aligns with patterns in other EU member states, contributing to the Europeanization process.