Political Consulting in Ukraine: Modern Directions, Challenges and Prospects for Development

Abstract

The article is devoted to a comprehensive analysis of political consulting in Ukraine, which functions in conditions of unprecedented challenges of a full-scale war and dynamic social transformations. The evolution of this sphere from the early 1990s to the present day is studied, the key stages of its formation and adaptation to changes in the political landscape and media environment are highlighted. Particular attention is paid to the current state of political consulting, its main areas of activity in wartime are outlined, including strategic and anti-crisis communications, GR and international lobbying, Digital consulting, analytical support and work with target audiences. The central element of the analysis is the influence of key public sentiments recorded by leading Ukrainian sociological centers (KIIS, Sociological Group "Rating", Razumkov Center, SOCIS, Democratic Initiatives Foundation) during 2022-2025 (in particular, high trust in the Armed Forces of Ukraine and volunteers, fluctuations in trust in the authorities, belief in victory, demand for justice, concern about corruption), on the formation and implementation of political strategies and communications. The important role of political experts and analysts (such as Volodymyr Fesenko, Vitaliy Bala, Kost Bondarenko, Oleg Sahakyan, Mykola Davydiuk) as interpreters of sociological data and the context of political processes is revealed. The main challenges and problems faced by the industry in Ukraine are systematized (lack of regulation, ethical dilemmas, specifics of work during war, information warfare, financial constraints, lack of personnel). Key prospects and directions for further development and improvement of political consulting are identified, including the need for legislative regulation, strengthening ethical standards, development of an analytical base, specialization, implementation of technological innovations, and adaptation to the needs of post-war reconstruction. The importance of transparency and professionalism of political consultants for promoting democratic processes and effective interaction between government and society in a difficult period of Ukrainian history is emphasized.