ABSTRACT
The full-scale aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine has led to a profound change in the mass consciousness of Ukrainians. They are beginning to see themselves not only as a people capable of resisting an external invasion but also as a community reinventing itself and its collective identity. The aim of this chapter is to present the issue of Ukrainian identity under conditions of war, using the example of the women’s resistance movement ‘Angry Mavka’ in the Russian-occupied territories. The ‘Angry Mavka’ movement is significant for Ukrainian national identity in conditions of war, uniting people and reminding them of their national identity. Based on symbols drawn from Ukrainian folklore that symbolise freedom and opposition to injustice, the movement serves as a key weapon in building communities, strengthening national values, and resisting attempts at Russification. In the occupied territories, the ‘Angry Mavka’ actively fights against attempts to establish a Russian identity; the movement’s actions represent a force of resistance and sacrifice that inspires the next generation of Ukrainians. The Angry Mavka promotes the emancipation of women as a key element in the construction of a modern Ukraine. The actions in which they participate strengthen the role of women in public, political, and cultural life. The movement redefines the concept of patriotism to include elements of gender equality and social justice. In this way, the Angry Mavka supports the building of an inclusive society based on shared values and solidarity, while respecting diversity.
