THE FIRST CONGRESS AND ORGANIZATIONAL FORMATION OF THE UKRAINIAN SECTION OF THE SOCIAL DEMOCRATIC WORKERS’ PARTY OF AUSTRIA IN THE EARLY 20TH CENTURY

Abstract

The article examines the organizational formation of the Ukrainian Social Democratic Party (USDP) in the early 20th century within the political and social transformations in Galicia. It analyzes its cooperation with Polish Social Democracy, relations with other political forces, and challenges in establishing a mass organization. Special attention is given to the First USDP Congress of 1903.

The formation of the USDP in the early 20th century was complex and contradictory. Despite its official establishment in 1899, the party‟s organizational structure remained weak, and a significant portion of its activities was carried out in close cooperation with Polish Social Democracy, effectively under its influence.

The First USDP Congress, held in Lviv on March 21–22, 1903, was an important step in consolidating the party. It outlined its programmatic principles, established its statutes and tactics, but did not fully resolve key organizational issues. The main focus was placed on the mobilization of impoverished rural communities, while industrial workers remained under the influence of Polish Social Democracy.

The party actively supported the strike movement, particularly the agrarian protests of 1902, which helped enhance its popularity among the peasantry. However, due to the lack of a clear agrarian program and organizational development strategy, its impact remained limited.

Structural flaws within the USDP led to instability in its position. The absence of local party committees, ineffective agitation efforts, and lack of financial support weakened its influence. Additionally, lack of more systematic communication with existing or potential supporters and neglect of urban working-class organizations slowed the party‟s development.

Despite the nominal completion of its organizational formation and the initial steps toward building party structures, the USDP failed to fully realize its potential due to structural challenges that hindered its political influence. The party‟s further growth required a revision of its strategy and expansion of its social base.