Kharkiv, 2 December 2024 – Kharkiv has hosted its first forum on local development and recovery, titled “Kharkiv Platform: Security, Cohesion, and Recovery.” The event, organized with the support of the Government of Denmark and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Ukraine, convened 80 participants from six partner communities across Kharkiv Oblast. It brought together representatives of local authorities, civil society, businesses, security service providers, and international organizations to explore strategic approaches to advance the region’s recovery.

This forum was a pivotal step in the transition from immediate humanitarian relief to systematic and sustainable community development. It prioritized strengthening community security, fostering social cohesion, and actively involving citizens in recovery initiatives. Attendees explored practical avenues for collaboration with law enforcement bodies, the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SES), businesses, and international stakeholders to adopt a comprehensive approach to the region’s recovery.

The forum’s agenda featured an array of thematic sessions. Discussions spanned topics such as community security during wartime, development prospects for Kharkiv Oblast, and the challenges and opportunities associated with engaging communities in recovery processes. Particular emphasis was placed on the contributions of international organizations to adapting global best practices to the local context. An interactive session encouraged participants to collaboratively formulate strategic concepts for enhancing community resilience and fostering social cohesion.

Yevhen Ivanov, Deputy Head of Kharkiv Oblast Military Administration, underscored the necessity of coordinated and well-structured efforts for the recovery and development of Kharkiv Oblast. “Our efforts are directed towards achieving swift and effective collaboration, establishing a solid foundation for constructive dialogue and fruitful cooperation in the framework of this forum,” Mr Ivanov stated. “We are committed not only to exchanging perspectives but also to strengthening our partnerships with international stakeholders.”

He further emphasized that a key immediate priority is to formulate joint initiatives for 2025, along with securing additional funding to support the region. Addressing the pressing challenges faced daily by Kharkiv and the oblast will remain central to these efforts.

Jaco Cilliers, UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine,  highlighted that recovery is ongoing despite the continued active phase of the war, underscoring the determination of communities to not only return to normality but also to pursue proactively development. “This determination has emerged as a defining trend nationwide,” Mr Cilliers remarked. “Recovery is not just about rebuilding physical infrastructure; it is about creating systems that cater to human needs, uphold rights, and unlock potential. The ‘build back better’ approach empowers people to participate in decision-making and equipps them to become agents of change. This forum is enabling a deeper understanding of community needs and paving the way for crafting effective solutions that will ensure sustainable progress and development.”

Background

The forum was organized by the Kharkiv Oblast State Administration, V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University, and the Relief Coordination Centre, with support from UNDP in Ukraine and financial assistance from the Government of Denmark.

Media enquiries

Yulia Samus, Head of Communications, UNDP in Ukraine, yuliia.samus@undp.org