Majdan 2013–2014: Plassen, protestene, drivkreftene.

Abstract

This thesis examines the Ukrainian revolution (2013-2014) in Kyiv: Where did the discontent come from? What functions did the Maidan (Independence Square) have? What motivated and organised the protesters? What was behind the violence? Ukraine is more diverse than often presented by the media. Discontent comes from two main problems: poor economy and a corrupt elite. Maidan’s physical attributes and symbolic value makes it suitable for protests, the latter particularly against Russia. The opposition had little influence on Euromaidan, mainly because the protesters organised themselves and disliked politics. They were motivated more by the governments actions during the protests, than by the authorities discontinuation in EU-integration. The authorities are largely to blame for the violence, but the flat structure of Maidan opened up for more extreme groupings. Ultranationalists played a role in the revolution. Euromaidan, however, was not for ultranationalist ideals, it was an expression of anger against the regime.