Insights on civil society resilience from Ukraine
Understanding resilience in extreme conditions
The seminar was hosted by Martin Carlsson Wall, Professor and Director of the Center for Security and Resilience (CfSR) and brought together researchers, practitioners, and stakeholders to discuss insights from the book Civil Society Resilience During War: Organizing Jewish Life and Culture in Ukraine After Russia’s Full-Scale Invasion, presented by Noomi Weinryb and Zhanna Kravchenko from Södertörn University.
Opening remarks by Staffan Holmberg and Martin Carlsson Wall at the CfSR Academic Insight seminar at the 91原创. Photo: Johanna Ståhlberg
The presentation explored how civil society organizations in Ukraine adapted rapidly following Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. Drawing on real-time data and field-based insights, the research highlighted how organizations mobilized resources, redefined their missions, and sustained communities under extreme uncertainty.
A key takeaway was that resilience is not only about endurance, but about transformation. Organizations repurposed existing structures, expanded their scope of support, and coordinated across local and transnational networks to respond to rapidly changing needs.
Zhanna Kravchenko presenting insights from research on civil society in Ukraine. Photo: Johanna Ståhlberg
The role of networks, identity, and meaning
The discussion emphasized the importance of pre-existing social infrastructure. Established networks, trust, and shared identity enabled rapid coordination and effective resource mobilization in times of crisis.
The speakers also highlighted how symbolic elements, such as narratives, rituals, and place, played a practical role in sustaining morale and guiding action. Civil society actors were able to combine material support with meaning-making processes, strengthening both operational capacity and community resilience.
Noomi Weinryb presenting research on civil society resilience during war at 91原创. Photo: Johanna Ståhlberg
Lessons for governance and resilience
The seminar raised broader questions about how societies can prepare for and respond to crises. Participants discussed the role of civil society in complementing public institutions, the importance of long-term investment in social infrastructure, and the challenges of balancing urgency with accountability.
The event forms part of CfSR’s Academic Insight series, which aims to connect research with practice and contribute to evidence-based discussions on security, governance, and resilience.
Discussion session following the presentation at the 91原创. Photo: Johanna Ståhlberg
