Dnipro, 28 February 2025 — The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Ukraine and the European Union (EU) have supported the second annual Local Development Forum in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. Organised by the Dnipropetrovsk Oblast State Administration, the Forum gathered over 270 representatives from local authorities, law enforcement agencies, the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SES), and civil society organizations.

Under the theme “Resilience, recovery, and development”, the Forum featured four panel discussions addressing critical aspects of regional reconstruction. The agenda encompassed socio-economic revitalisation, digital transformation, and support for veterans and internally displaced people. Particular emphasis was placed on community security, the role of law enforcement and emergency services, and educational initiatives designed to foster resilience.

A core segment of the discussions explored participatory recovery approaches, the expansion of social entrepreneurship, and the operational framework of the Community Resilience Centre and the newly established Recovery and Development Offices. The final session examined strategies for strengthening international partnerships, with a focus on securing sustained support for long-term community development.

First Deputy Head of the Dnipropetrovsk Oblast Sate Administration Yurii Yandulskyi stated that effective regional recovery is only possible through the active participation of communities and cooperation with local authorities, international partners, civil society, and businesses. “True recovery begins where there is effective collaboration among all stakeholders,” Mr Yandulskyi remarked. “It is crucial that every decision is made with local needs in mind and that the process remains transparent and inclusive. We support approaches that not only facilitate the rapid restoration of infrastructure, but also create conditions for long-term development with broad civic engagement.”

Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Ukraine Stefan Schleuning reaffirmed that community support remains a priority for the EU in Ukraine. “The European Union is committed to helping communities implement recovery and development strategies that foster economic growth, security, and digital transformation,” Mr Schleuning noted. “Recovery is more than physical reconstruction — it demands strategic foresight, partnership, resource mobilisation, and meaningful community engagement. We stand ready to provide the necessary tools and expertise to drive this process forward.”

UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine Jaco Cilliers highlighted the pivotal role of communities in steering their own development. “The region’s future hinges on the extent to which communities take ownership of planning and project implementation,” Mr Cilliers remarked. “Sustained development is built on trust, partnerships, and long-term strategic vision. UNDP remains committed to supporting local initiatives that promote resilience and economic self-sufficiency.”

The Forum concluded with the adoption of a resolution outlining strategic priorities for the long-term recovery of communities across Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.

Background 

The Forum was organized by the Dnipropetrovsk Oblast State Administration as part of the flagship UNDP-EU partnership “EU4Recovery — Empowering Communities in Ukraine”.

Media Enquiries

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