According to a survey conducted by the National Democratic Institute and the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology in May 2024, 24% of Ukrainians face serious financial difficulties at their current income level. The latest data shows that only 8% of respondents consider their financial situation comfortable. The largest share of respondents, 39%, noted that their income does not cover basic needs and causes certain difficulties.
The survey also revealed a pessimistic forecast regarding the financial situation of future generations: 47% of Ukrainians believe that the next generation will be less well-off, while only 24% believe that the standard of living will improve.
Along with financial problems, sociologists recorded a high level of optimism about Ukraine's European integration aspirations. Over 70% of respondents hope that Ukraine will become a member of the European Union and the North Atlantic Alliance by 2030.
90% of respondents expressed a desire to see Ukraine in the EU by the specified deadline, and 77% expect that this is possible. Although the desire to join the EU remains stable, the gap between desire and actual expectations has noticeably increased. As for NATO, 84% of respondents want to see Ukraine as a member of the alliance by 2030, although this number has decreased compared to previous years. Expectations regarding NATO membership have also decreased, but still remain at a high level.
These results demonstrate the contrast between the financial difficulties experienced by Ukrainians and their hope for European integration, which leaves the country in a situation of social tension, but at the same time notes a high level of support for the European vector of development.
