When Russia invaded Ukraine, many analysts focused on the front lines. But Silviya Nitsova was already studying something deeper: the power struggle behind the scenes. Long before the war, Nitsova was uncovering how Ukraine’s oligarchs were shaping the nation’s policies and influencing the country’s ability to withstand external threats.
Nitsova’s research offers a critical lens through which global policymakers are beginning to see Ukraine’s internal dynamics. At a time when Ukraine’s survival hinges on its ability to govern itself effectively, Nitsova’s work is revealing the hidden forces that could determine the future of the country’s democracy.
Her insights have been spotlighted by The Washington Post and Financial Times. In her 2022 article, “Ukraine’s Oligarchs Are United Against Russia,” she helped shape international discussions about the role of Ukraine’s elite during wartime.
IHS provided Nitsova with crucial financial support through a Humane Studies Fellowship, which allowed her to complete her research on Ukrainian oligarchs. Moreover, IHS fostered connections between Nitsova and leading scholars in the field through an academic mentoring program, giving Nitsova the opportunity to expand her research into actionable insights. She also participated in IHS’s graduate seminars, where she honed her analytical skills and met collaborators.
Nitsova’s work is influencing how global leaders approach policy decisions related to Ukraine. Her research has directly informed strategies for international sanctions and aid, providing a clearer understanding of the oligarchic structures that impact Ukraine’s governance.
