Project summary:

To respond to the time-critical needs emerging as a result of the full-scale war, and to regain progress that had previously been made while preventing further deterioration of development gains, UNDP – with generous support from the Government of Denmark – has launched the “Enhanced Citizen Engagement for Improved Community Security, Strengthened Social Fabric and Increased Stability in Areas Affected by the War in Eastern Ukraine and Beyond” project.

This project is intended to enhance local security and justice services by strengthening law enforcement and justice institutions to provide inclusive and quality services anchored in human rights principles, focusing on both stable and displacement settings. It seeks to empower communities to identify and mitigate security and safety risks, including tensions between host communities and displaced populations. Additionally, it is supporting authorities to promote, protect, and fulfill human rights for all.

The project empowers rights holders, including women, youth, and other affected groups, with capacities for advocacy and participation in decision-making in safe public spaces. It also equips communities with skills for dialogue, peacebuilding, early warning, and confidence building. The implementation strategy involves increasing social cohesion and dialogue even in displacement settings, addressing the root causes of disunity and tension, and tackling the long-term consequences of the ongoing war.

Overall, the project is designed to contribute to stabilization efforts, defend medium-term development gains, and pave the way for sustainable recovery.