Corruption in recruitment offices is the main demotivator for mobilization, soldiers support elections – study
Ukrainian citizens are willing to join the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) under the conditions of transparent mobilization rules, eradication of corruption, and increased trust in authorities, particularly through elections.
These findings were highlighted in a qualitative survey on the impact of disinformation on Ukraine's mobilization processes, conducted by the analytical group InfoLight.UA and presented at the Interfax-Ukraine news agency on Wednesday.
According to the group's experts, key reforms should include dismantling military recruitment offices and creating modern civilian structures with transparent procedures. Additionally, mobilization should engage all social groups regardless of status or income level.
"The state has failed to ensure transparent and fair conscription rules, which exacerbates distrust, along with uncertainty about service terms," the study said.
Respondents also emphasized the need to cease mobilization efforts in public places and improve state communication with conscripts. Gradual adaptation to military service through initial roles in rear-line units was suggested as an approach.
InfoLight.UA experts said that another significant issue for Ukrainians is the question of elections. Among soldiers, the idea of holding elections as a way to restore trust in authorities received the most support.
"The need for elections to legitimize power gained the strongest backing among the military, dispelling artificially created myths," political expert Volodymyr Soniuk said during the press conference.
The study also revealed that soldiers expect the implementation of rotation systems, regular rest periods for frontline units, and guarantees of fixed service terms.
InfoLight.UA's study is being conducted in two stages: qualitative and quantitative surveys. The results presented are from the first stage, based on in-depth interviews with representatives of key groups. These groups include Ukrainian men abroad as refugees and men in Ukraine, such as soldiers, those awaiting mobilization, and those avoiding conscription.
The second stage, involving a quantitative survey, will be completed and published in about a month. It will systematize the qualitative data and provide statistically grounded conclusions for further analysis.
