Euromaidan four years on: what remains?
In 2014 the Ukrainians toppled president Viktor Yanukovitch. For commentators the fourth anniversary of the Euromaidan provides an opportunity to take stock of developments.
Citizens must take part in politics!
The Maidan protests were a historical moment but the right lessons weren't learned from them, journalist Laryssa Voloshyna comments in Den:
“One thing we should all have learned from the Maidan protests is that the masses can't be a subject. We already tried this and it didn't work out. Instead of founding groups and going into politics the active part that understands that the country is not moving in the right direction argues over the effectiveness of the next rebellion. ... It's time to take stock and pass judgement. Not about 'them' but about ourselves. It's time to find people who think like we do and do everything we can to ensure that it won't be necessary to stage protests at the Maidan again.”
Infantile faith in a messiah
The heroes of the Ukrainian "Revolution of Dignity" sunk very low, journalist Valery Maydanyuk writes on Zaxid.net:
“Many of the former idols of Euromaidan have remained in politics and now hold state posts. However, they are no longer loved by the people and the ovations are also a thing of the past. On the contrary, no one believes them at all any more. Such a swift fall from Olympus and the heights of popularity to marginality is not just the result of voters' disappointment regarding these politicians' competence and morals. No, it is more a result of the Ukrainians' stubborn, infantile belief in a messiah - in ideal, honest, decent, smart, good and patriotic idols.”