Overview
Building on the empirical findings and qualitative methodology of Prof. Dr. Michael Derrer’s doctoral research (2020–2024), this project analyzes the evolving dynamics of corruption and informal governance in Ukraine since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. It focuses on how wartime conditions, massive international assistance, and accelerated administrative procedures reshape incentive structures, institutional vulnerabilities, and informal practices.
The primary objective is to develop differentiated, empirically grounded policy recommendations for Swiss support and reconstruction projects in Ukraine. To this end, the project systematically compares small-scale, locally embedded grassroots initiatives with large-scale state-led programs. This contrastive design enables a fine-grained assessment of how different implementation logics affect corruption risks, accountability mechanisms, and institutional resilience.
Based on this comparative analysis, the project aims to formulate practical guidelines for the design, governance, and monitoring of Swiss aid projects. These guidelines seek not only to minimize governance risks, but also to strengthen local agency, trust, and the long-term institutional sustainability of Ukrainian partner organizations and public administrations.
