Academic Scientific JournalsThe Smart Power Tradition in the Conditions of the Russian-Ukrainian War Using the Example of Local Self-Government
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.26881/jpgs.2025.3.06Keywords:
postmodern, tradition, ‘smart power’, soft power, hard power, Russian-Ukrainian WarAbstract
This article deals with the validation of the smart-power tradition in the context of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict. The analysis of scientific research and publications shows that foreign and domestic scientists actively study the phenomenon of ‘smart power’. It is determined that Ukraine’s transition to a postmodern society is filled with complex, contradictory, emergent, but innovative phenomena. Tradition has been shown to be a force for radical renewal and the assertion of ultimate perfection, and its legitimacy has a significant impact on the ability and efficacy of state power. Simultaneously, the ‘smart power’ idea, which encompasses both hard and soft power resources in times of conflict, is a societal archetype whose integrity is comprised of both conservative and creative elements.
Using the example of local self-government, in light of the continuing decentralization reform, the application of both authoritarian and democratic patterns seen under martial law is taken into consideration. The findings of a poll carried out by the Razumkov’s Center in 2025 were examined to determine the degree to which social and state institutions are impacted. It was found that under wartime circumstances, some restrictions are necessary, so the use of the ‘smart power’ tradition makes it expedient to combine and use the elements of ‘soft’ and ‘hard’ power.
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