The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Ukraine and the European Union (EU) supported the annual Forum on Local Development of Chernihiv Oblast, an initiative started in 2023 by local authorities. Like last year, the forum was held in Chernihiv and brought together over 100 participants, including representatives from communities, local authorities, national and international partners, civil society, and the veteran community.

This year, the forum focused on developing effective strategies for the sustainable development of communities within the long-term recovery process. In addition to national partners, representatives from Latvia, France, Germany, Finland and the United States joined the discussions. Panel discussions explored ways to strengthen national and international cooperation in the recovery and reconstruction of Chernihiv Oblast’s communities in wartime conditions, enhance the region’s social and economic potential, and preserve human capital.

Viacheslav Chaus, the Head of the Oblast State Administration, expressed gratitude to international partners for their cooperation and steadfast support. “We must foster conditions that encourage our people to stay, work and build businesses here, or to return from abroad,” Mr Chaus said. “We are committed to transforming challenges into new opportunities for our communities. And only together can we make this a reality.”

Stefan Schleuning, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Ukraine, highlighted the EU’s support for Chernihiv Oblast and its people. “As we continue our partnership with the communities in Chernihiv region, it is important to reflect on the results of the ongoing recovery efforts and identify opportunities for longer-term community development,” Mr Schleuning said. “We are proud to support these communities on improved service delivery and security for their residents and look forward to expanded partnerships in the future.”

Jaco Cilliers, UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine, underscored the importance of coordinated action at all levels for a cohesive and effective recovery and development process. “Equally essential,” Mr Cilliers added, “is that communities take charge of their own futures. Sustainable recovery and development can only happen when communities lead these efforts. Together with our partners, our mission is to provide the necessary support, resources, and expertise to successfully drive recovery and development on the ground.”

Following the forum, a joint resolution was issued at the initiative of the Chernihiv Oblast State Administration, outlining the next steps for regional recovery and development. The document reflects the specific needs of community residents, as voiced in forum discussions.

UNDP and the EU have actively supported Chernihiv Oblast’s communities since Russian Federation’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Examples of successful cooperation include the establishment of police stations in remote communities, the creation of safe and “green” rooms, the opening of a community resilience centre, support for internally displaced persons, veteran reintegration, and other key initiatives.

Background
The forum was organized by the Chernihiv Oblast State Administration under the flagship “EU4Recovery – Empowering Communities in Ukraine” partnership between UNDP and the EU.

Media enquiries

Yulia Samus, Head of Communications, UNDP in Ukraine, [email protected]