Sociological Battles: A Study in Odessa Was Accused of Manipulation

The results of two important sociological studies were presented in Odesa, providing a snapshot of public sentiment in the city and the region amid the war. 

Akcent analyzed both.

The first survey, conducted as part of the Odessa ID project, focuses on how Odessa residents identify themselves, language issues, cultural practices, and their vision for their city. The second survey examines the religious landscape in the region, interfaith relations, and attitudes toward churches associated with Russia.

 The findings of both studies are very interesting, not only for experts but also for the general public. It is also noteworthy that in one of the studies, concerned Odessa residents identified instances of manipulation of figures and wording. 

The first sociological survey was conducted as part of the Odessa ID project, which the city government launched in January 2026. The main goal of this project was a comprehensive study of residents’ self-identification, their cultural practices, values, the linguistic situation, and public sentiment amid historical changes. This sociological survey is the first phase of the project. Based on its findings, the city plans to develop strategies in the areas of education, culture, public communication, and youth outreach. 

This study sparked debate due to the section on “territorial identity, the balance between the local and the national”—or, more precisely, the question of who respondents identify with first and foremost: as a resident of Odesa or as a citizen of Ukraine. 

The second study was conducted by the sociological group “Rating.” Intent was a co-organizer of the event. The study aims to show how residents of the region assess the activities of religious institutions, interfaith relations, and their impact on society amid a full-scale war. Experts presented data on the level of trust Ukrainians have in the leaders of various religious denominations, the ratio of communities, parishioners, and churches, citizens’ attitudes toward parishes transferring from the UOC to the OCU, as well as support for banning religious organizations linked to Russia.

According to the survey, 73% of respondents support the idea of severing the UOC’s ties with the Russian Orthodox Church. Another 56% approve of a legislative ban on the activities of religious organizations linked to the aggressor state. 

Кирило Бойко