New Ways of Expressing and Suppressing Dissent in 21st Century- A Study of Ukraine

Abstract

Expressing dissent is an important part of any democratic set up. In last few years we have witnessed protests in several countries including democratic countries. However, what is interesting the methods of protests that have been adopted by the protesters. The methods are largely influenced by the happenings in the other parts of the world especially the Middle East. Government also has adopted some unique ways and often harsh measures to quell the protests. Reactionary measures adopted by countries across the continents in the 21^st century makes an interesting study.

            Protests have gripped Ukraine since the government rejected a far-reaching accord with the EU in favour of stronger ties with Russia in November 2013.  They turned violent on 19 January and deadly on 22 January in the capital, Kiev, where confrontation degenerated into rioting after the government brought in tough new legislation to end mass protests on the main square. Ukraine as a country is not new to protests. The country saw the now infamous Orange Revolution in 2005. The paper will make an attempt to understand the new ways of expressing and suppressing dissent in the 21st century taking Ukraine as a model. In this regard, the study of Ukraine is very appropriate.