Purpose. This study aims to provide an in-depth empirical assessment of the relationship between the density and structure of civil society organizations (CSOs) within selected Ukrainian territorial communities and citizens’ perceptions of their performance. The research explores whether the quantitative presence of CSOs correlates with higher levels of civic engagement, public trust, and satisfaction with cooperation with local authorities. The analysis also seeks to identify systemic challenges affecting informal and financial support mechanisms and to determine the conditions under which CSOs can effectively contribute to strengthening participatory governance and local development.
Design/methodology/approach. He study is based on a structured empirical design, combining quantitative and comparative approaches. Primary data were obtained from surveys conducted among residents of four territorial communities, focusing on their evaluation of CSO activity, quality of informal support (informational, consultative, and organizational assistance), and financial support mechanisms. Descriptive statistics were used to determine distributions, and cross-community comparison allowed for the identification of correlational patterns between CSO density and perceived quality of interaction. The findings were synthesized to generate a set of analytical generalizations regarding the relationship between civil society capacity and citizen participation.
Findings. Empirical evidence indicates that a greater number of CSOs does not necessarily translate into higher levels of civic participation or more favorable public evaluations of CSO activities. Respondents most frequently reported a moderate level of both informal and financial support, whereas consistently high ratings were rare. Limited financial assistance emerged as a critical barrier, suggesting that many CSOs operate with resource constraints that restrict their ability to scale activities and broaden community outreach. The results also highlight the significance of organizational focus and relevance of activities as decisive factors shaping public trust and engagement, thus underscoring the importance of aligning CSO agendas with local needs and policy priorities.
Practical implications. The research provides actionable insights for policy-makers, municipal administrations, and donor institutions. Recommended measures include the development of targeted funding instruments, capacity-building programs for CSO leadership, and institutionalized platforms for dialogue between civil society and government stakeholders. Implementing these measures may lead to improved public participation in decision-making processes, enhanced accountability of local authorities, and the creation of a more resilient civic ecosystem, particularly relevant in the context of Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction and democratic consolidation.
Originality/value. This paper contributes to the literature by offering micro-level empirical evidence on the relationship between CSO density and civic engagement, moving beyond the traditional focus on national-level aggregates. By integrating community-level survey data with comparative analysis, it generates new insights into the structural and financial determinants of CSO performance. The study’s results have direct policy relevance and can inform both local and national strategies for strengthening civil society, reducing disparities in access to participation, and promoting inclusive local governance.
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