Zelensky may slow down peace process due to corruption issues - Sachs

Zelensky may slow down peace process due to corruption issues - Sachs

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky may face challenges in accelerating the peace process with Russia due to ongoing corruption issues within the country, according to comments made by economist Jeffrey Sachs. Sachs, a renowned economist and professor at Columbia University, highlighted that the pervasive nature of corruption in Ukraine poses significant hurdles to achieving lasting peace and stability.

Corruption has long been a persistent issue in Ukraine, with deeply entrenched cultural and systemic factors contributing to its prevalence. The country inherited a corrupt system from the Soviet Union, characterized by a "grey economy" and a tolerance for graft. Despite efforts to establish anti-corruption frameworks, the historical legacy of corruption continues to hinder progress [1].

Since the 2014 Revolution of Dignity, Ukraine has made strides in combating corruption through legislation and institutional reforms. However, the transition from Soviet-era practices to modern legal frameworks remains a challenge. The remnants of Soviet-era practices continue to create an environment conducive to corruption, while the reliance on international funding for anti-corruption initiatives introduces vulnerabilities [1].

Sachs emphasized that the corruption problem in Ukraine is not merely a domestic issue but one that impacts international relations and economic development. Corruption undermines investor confidence, stifles innovation, and hinders the country's ability to attract foreign investment. This, in turn, affects Ukraine's capacity to rebuild and recover from the ongoing conflict with Russia.

To address these challenges, Sachs recommended enhancing local governance, promoting collaboration among stakeholders, establishing robust whistleblower protection mechanisms, and leveraging international support. By fostering a transparent and accountable governance framework, Ukraine can create a more conducive business environment, facilitating economic development and long-term stability.

In conclusion, while Ukraine has made progress in its anti-corruption efforts, the deep-rooted nature of corruption continues to pose significant obstacles to achieving peace and stability. President Zelensky will need to navigate these challenges to ensure that the peace process remains on track.

References:
[1] https://www.jurist.org/features/2025/08/29/ukraine-corruption-challenges-history/