Devin Ackles

Devin Ackles is an independent analyst of Belarusian and Ukrainian affairs, and an editor for Krytyka. Follow him on Twitter at @DevinAckles

A controversial law takes aim at Ukraine’s anti-corruption NGOs

New moves to make the work of Ukraine’s NGOs “transparent” only highlights how the fight against corruption is being undermined.

By Devin Ackles

/ 10 Apr 2017

We are not parasites: understanding Belarus’s protests

Thousands have taken to the streets across Belarus to protest a law penalising the unemployed. But there’s every chance that the Lukashenka government is playing the long game.

By Devin Ackles

/ 23 Mar 2017

A stalemate in Belarus

Two new opposition candidates prepare to take their seats after rigged parliamentary elections in Belarus. As ever, the real losers are ordinary citizens.

By Devin Ackles

/ 14 Sep 2016

Lukashenka’s victory: the improbable nexus

As Aleksandr Lukashenka wins his fifth term as president, are there signs that Belarus’ political stagnation might be about to change?

By Devin Ackles

/ 12 Oct 2015

Ukraine’s European integration

If the EU is serious about helping Ukraine, both parties should focus on the country’s most glaring problem, and the Maidan’s principal demands – justice and the rule of law.

By Devin Ackles

/ 25 Mar 2015

CU and EU - what’s in a letter?

Moscow’s recent overtures to Ukraine and Armenia concerning membership of the Russia-led Customs Union have been heavy on threats and hard-ball politics, and rather short on attempts at actually explaining the benefits of joining the Union instead of pursuing European Union integration. Which offe

By Devin Ackles and Luke Rodeheffer

/ 23 Sep 2013