LOCALIZATION OF SOCIAL DISTRESS: THE ROLE OF LEGITIMACY AND CAPACITY OF MODERN UKRAINIAN AUTHORITIES

The focus is placed on the factors influencing Ukrainians' ability to overcome the social distress caused by the war. In particular, special attention is given to how the institutional capacity of the state and the inclusive nature of its institutions affect the development and implementation of policies aimed at addressing post-war socio-political trauma. It is emphasized that the war has led to profound social scars, heightened perceptions of injustice, and exacerbated existing inequalities. Overcoming these consequences requires a comprehensive policy that combines efforts to restore social trust, heal societal wounds, and create conditions for sustainable development. The argument is made that the low institutional capacity of the Ukrainian state is one of the key factors hindering effective mitigation of the war's aftermath. The lack of a robust institutional foundation not only slows down recovery but also risks perpetuating social and political challenges in the long term. Successful reconstruction in Ukraine necessitates profound reforms aimed at strengthening state institutions, enhancing their transparency and efficiency, and fostering conditions for inclusive citizen participation in political and administrative decision-making processes. It is highlighted that the underestimation of participatory tools, characteristic of both the authorities and civil society, limits the potential for social cohesion. At the same time, inclusivity can have a positive impact (e.g., building trust between the state and its citizens) only if accompanied by deep institutional transformations. Addressing the «capacity traps» embedded in the legal and regulatory framework, which constrain the functionality of state institutions, is a critical step toward achieving sustainable peace and social stability. Therefore, rebuilding new social connections and institutional trust becomes not only a task for the state but also a collective responsibility of the broader society.