Bridges of Trust 10

Four years after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, local and regional elected representatives from the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) once again reaffirm their unwavering support for Ukraine and its people.

On this fourth anniversary of Russia’s aggression, CEMR has issued a formal declaration strongly condemning the war, which continues to claim countless victims, and reiterating the commitment of European local and regional governments to stand alongside Ukraine in its struggle for freedom, reconstruction and European integration.

Call against attacks on Ukrainian mayors

Local and regional elected representatives remain on the frontlines of the war, ensuring the continuity of essential services under extraordinary and often dangerous conditions. Yet they continue to be directly targeted.

CEMR denounces the abduction of Ukrainian mayors and supports the call of the Association of Ukrainian Cities demanding the immediate release of those still detained:

Oleksandr Babych – Hola Prystan City Mayor
Ihor Kolykhaiev – Kherson City Mayor
Anatolii Siryi – Starosta of Novi Borovychi Starosta District, Snovsk City Municipality

CEMR also condemns the arbitrary imprisonment, torture and murder of Ukrainian people in Russian captivity, including:

Yevhenii Matvieiev – Mayor of Dniprorudne
Oleksii Vynnychenko – Starosta of the Hrebenykivka Starosta District of Boromlia Village Municipality

Commitment to peace, reconstruction and EU integration

CEMR calls for the immediate end to the war, and for decisive actions to enable the establishment of a just and lasting peace in Europe and the reconstruction of Ukraine. Achieving this requires full engagement of the European Union and its Member States at every stage of the process. European local and regional governments stand ready to contribute actively to recovery, democratic resilience, and long-term stability.

In its declaration, CEMR reaffirms its dedication to:

Supporting Ukraine’s reconstruction through partnerships, exchanges and decentralised cooperation between towns, cities and regions.
Accompanying Ukraine on its path to full EU membership, strengthening democratic governance and multilevel cooperation across Europe.
Sustaining and expanding cooperation through key initiatives, including:
- CEMR’s Matchmaking Platform, connecting municipalities, regions and local governments across Europe to strengthen practical cooperation.
- Bridges of Trust Community, bringing together local and regional representatives engaged in cooperation to foster trust, resilience, sustainable development and democratic governance.
- European Alliance of Cities and Regions for the Reconstruction of Ukraine, uniting local and regional governments to support recovery through exchange of experience, partnerships and coordinated action.

A call for sustained European engagement

As the war enters its fifth year, sustained political, financial and institutional support remains essential. The reconstruction of Ukraine and the achievement of a just and lasting peace demand continued solidarity, coordinated action and long-term commitment.

CEMR stands firm in defending European values of democracy, peace and the rule of law. European local and regional governments remain committed to accompanying Ukraine to full EU membership, contributing to a stronger, more resilient and more secure Europe.

Read the full CEMR declaration:

CEMR’s recommendations: five essential conditions for the fair and effective integration of Ukraine into the EU

For more information, contact:

Project Officer – International Partnerships (U-Lead)

TARAN Stanislav In Bridges of Trust, Bridges of Trust, International cooperation, Press, Projects and Programmes, Projects and programmes, Publications

Declaration on three years of war in Ukraine

CEMR issues a declaration reaffirming support and urging international action

After three years of Ukraine’s resistance to Russia’s full-scale invasion, local and regional elected representatives from the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) reaffirm their unwavering support for Ukraine and its people.

CEMR has issued a formal declaration condemning the war launched by Russia and calling for decisive international action.

Call against attacks on Ukrainian mayors

Local and regional elected representatives are on the frontlines of this war, ensuring that essential services continue despite difficult conditions. Yet, they have also become targets of aggression.

CEMR denounces the abduction of Ukrainian mayors and supports the call of the Association of Ukrainian Cities demanding the immediate release of those still detained:

Oleksandr Babych – Mayor of Hola Prystan (Kherson region)

Ihor Kolykhaiev – Mayor of Kherson

Anatolii Siryi – Starosta of Novi Borovychi (Chernihiv region)

CEMR also condemns arbitrary imprisonment, torture and murder of Ukrainian people in Russian captivity including:

Yevhenii Matvieiev – Mayor of Dniprorudne (Zaporizhzhia region)

Oleksii Vynnychenko – Starosta of Hrebenykivka (Sumy region)

Call for Ukraine’s full EU membership

A victory for Ukraine and a just peace that will allow its reconstruction requires the full engagement of the European Union and its member states.

CEMR is committed to fostering resilience, recovery, and democratic governance in Ukraine. In its declaration, CEMR reaffirms its dedication to:

Supporting the reconstruction of Ukraine’s municipalities and regions through partnerships and exchanges.

Advocating for Ukraine’s full integration into the European Union to ensure long-term stability and prosperity.

Sustaining cooperation between European and Ukrainian local and regional governments through key initiatives, including:

The Matchmaking Platform, connecting municipalities and regions for cooperation.

The Bridges of Trust Community, Strengthening democratic governance, fostering partnerships, advancing recovery, and supporting Ukraine’s EU integration.

The European Alliance of Cities and Regions for the Reconstruction of Ukraine, coordinating efforts to rebuild local communities.

A call for action

As the war continues, it is time for European institutions, national governments, and local and regional authorities to intensify their support for and to Ukraine. The path to peace and reconstruction requires decisive action, sustained cooperation, and a commitment to justice.

CEMR urges the international community to stand firm in defending democracy, peace, and the rule of law. We call for Ukraine’s victory and a just peace that will allow its cities, regions, and people to rebuild their brighter future.

Read the full CEMR declaration:

English: https://ccre-cemr.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Declaration-on-Ukraine-2025-ENG.pdf

French: https://ccre-cemr.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Declaration-on-Ukraine-2025-FR.pdf

Ukrainian: https://ccre-cemr.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Declaration-on-Ukraine-2025-UA.pdf

For more information, contact:

Project Officer – International Partnerships (U-Lead)

TARAN Stanislav In Bridges of Trust, Bridges of Trust, Impact community Society, International cooperation, Press, Projects and Programmes, Projects and programmes, Publications, Ukraine reconstruction

Funding opportunities for Ukraine

EU and Member State programmes supporting municipalities in Ukraine’s recovery and cooperation with European partners

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In the face of Russia’s invasion and its devastating social and economic consequences, European Union and Member State funding programmes have become lifelines for Ukrainian municipalities. These mechanisms provide not only financial support but also technical expertise and institutional backing, helping local authorities address urgent needs, rebuild services, and strengthen community resilience.

This guide was developed by the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR), in cooperation with the U-LEAD with Europe Programme and CEMR’s National Associations, under the Bridges of Trust initiative. It brings together key funding opportunities available to both Ukrainian and European municipalities, offering a practical starting point for collaboration and joint recovery projects.

The initiatives highlighted stem from training sessions organised with Ukrainian and European partners. These covered project design and development, EU funding instruments, and the implications of Ukraine’s EU accession process. By leveraging existing EU programmes, municipalities can reinforce partnerships, promote local growth, and deliver tangible benefits for their citizens.

Recognising Ukraine’s strategic path towards EU membership, the European Commission has committed to extending funding mechanisms to Ukrainian municipalities, ensuring they can access resources alongside their European peers. In addition, the Ukraine Facility Programme (2024–2027) is being developed as a central financing instrument for recovery and development.

To support applicants, the guide provides practical resources:

CEMR’s Guide on 2021–2027 EU Funding, explaining how to use the Funding and Tender Portal and submit strong project proposals.
The PLATFORMA Handbook for local leaders and civil servants, offering step-by-step guidance on preparing applications, managing partnerships, and implementing EU-funded projects.

As a living document, this guide will continue to be updated with new funding streams and opportunities. It seeks not only to provide access to financial resources but also to strengthen trust and cooperation between Ukrainian and European municipalities, laying the foundations for a shared European future.

Read the study here

For more information, contact:

Project Officer – International Partnerships (U-Lead)

TARAN Stanislav In Bridges of Trust, Bridges of Trust, Governance, Governance, Local democracy, Local democracy, Press, Projects and Programmes, Projects and programmes, Publications

War on Ukraine first declaration

European local and regional leaders reaffirm solidarity with Ukraine and call for peace, justice, and reconstruction.

On the first anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, local and regional leaders across Europe renew their strongest support for Ukraine, its people, and its democratic institutions.

Condemning Aggression
The war has brought devastation to civilians, elected representatives, and essential infrastructure. The abduction of Ukrainian mayors and the ongoing detention of five of them highlight the assault on democracy and the rule of law. These acts are condemned in the strongest terms, with urgent calls for the immediate release of the detained leaders.

Solidarity and Support

Local and regional governments across Europe stand firmly by Ukraine. Partnerships such as the Bridges of Trust project, the Eastern Partnership programme, and the European Alliance of Cities and Regions for the Reconstruction of Ukraine are mobilising resources, expertise, and cooperation. These initiatives are not only helping communities recover but also preparing Ukraine for its future as a full member of the European Union.

Shared Values
This declaration is a reminder that Europe’s foundations rest on peace, democracy, and respect for international law. As the war continues, European leaders join the international community in reaffirming Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and in urging the Russian Federation to end its illegal war.

A year into this unjustified conflict, the commitment of Europe’s municipalities, cities, and regions is unwavering: to stand with Ukraine, to defend shared values, and to contribute to rebuilding a peaceful, democratic future.

For more information, contact:

Project Officer – International Partnerships (U-Lead)

CEMR projects overview

CEMR’s externally funded projects foster cooperation, innovation, and sustainability across Europe

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Through its externally funded activities, the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) brings local and regional leaders together to exchange ideas, test solutions, and build stronger communities. These projects are more than initiatives: they are platforms where municipalities and regions collaborate on Europe’s most pressing challenges, from climate action to equality, from digitalisation to democratic participation.

Overview of Projects
CEMR’s portfolio of externally funded projects reflects its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and inclusion:

Reference Framework for Sustainable Cities (RFSC) – Supporting sustainable cities with a practical tool to plan and assess policies.
IncluCities – Advancing migrant integration through peer learning among municipalities.
Circular Cities and Regions Initiative (CCRI) – Driving circular economy solutions for cities and regions.
Green City Accord – Helping European cities commit to ambitious environmental goals.
Covenant of Mayors – Uniting local leaders in climate and energy action.
PLATFORMA – Strengthening international partnerships and decentralised cooperation.
Bridges of Trust – Building ties between Ukrainian and European municipalities.
EPSU (Local Digital) – Supporting local administrations in navigating digital transitions.
EPSU (Third-Party Violence) – Tackling violence against public service workers.
Go.Li.EU – Promoting youth engagement and European citizenship.

Together, these projects illustrate how CEMR channels external resources into meaningful action. By bridging local realities with European priorities, they not only empower municipalities and regions but also shape a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient future for all.

Read the study here

For more information, contact:

GURI Durmish

Director – Projects & Programmes

REVAULT Martin In Bridges of Trust, Bridges of Trust, Impact community Society, Press, Projects and Programmes, Projects and programmes, Twinning, UCLG, Ukraine reconstruction, United Cities and Local Governments

Escalation of war against Ukraine

European local leaders condemn renewed Russian attacks and pledge solidarity with Ukrainian cities and communities

Meeting in Daejeon at the 7th UCLG World Congress and Summit of Local and Regional Leaders, European mayors and councillors expressed their deepest indignation at the recent escalation of Russia’s war against Ukraine. The renewed wave of violence continues to bring devastation to civilian populations and destruction to Ukrainian municipalities.

Condemning Targeted Attacks
The declaration strongly denounces deliberate strikes on civilians, including women and children, in violation of the Geneva Conventions. Equally condemned is the destruction of essential urban infrastructure, which deprives communities of the basic services needed to survive in wartime.

Solidarity with Ukraine
Local and regional leaders across Europe reaffirm their solidarity with Ukraine’s people, mayors, councillors, and associations of local governments who continue their work under extreme conditions. These partnerships are vital to ensuring communities can endure today’s challenges and prepare for tomorrow’s recovery.

Shared Values
The declaration recalls the core values upon which Europe is built—peace, democracy, justice, equality, inclusion, and dialogue. By standing with Ukraine, Europe also defends international law and human rights.

A Call to Action
European municipalities are invited to strengthen ties with Ukrainian peers through partnerships, twinning, and reconstruction efforts. The declaration also appeals directly to local leaders worldwide, and especially in Russia, to condemn the war and join the call for peace.

Reconstruction will require joint efforts. The declaration highlights the need for European institutions to support rebuilding Ukrainian infrastructure through city-to-city cooperation, aligning with Ukraine’s Fast Recovery Plan. European local and regional leaders reaffirm their readiness to work hand-in-hand with Ukrainian communities, ensuring that from the ruins of war, democracy and peace prevail.

For more information, contact:

REVAULT Martin

Attaché to the Secretary General

TARAN Stanislav In Bridges of Trust, Bridges of Trust, Press, Projects and Programmes, Projects and programmes, Publications

Statement on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine

European municipalities and regions reaffirm support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and local democracy amid ongoing threats

The Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) has voiced deep concern over the ongoing Russian military build-up around Ukraine. Such actions pose new threats not only to Ukraine’s security and sovereignty but also to peace and democracy across the wider region.

Local Governments Under Pressure
Ukrainian municipalities and regions face immense challenges: providing public services under the daily threat of military escalation, sustaining decentralisation and governance reforms, and continuing the democratic development of their cities and communities. These pressures are particularly acute in eastern regions, which have already endured the consequences of war since 2014.

Standing by Ukraine’s Sovereignty
European local and regional leaders reaffirm their unwavering support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders. These principles, rooted in international agreements and European security, cannot be compromised.

Support from Europe
CEMR welcomes the European Commission’s emergency financial assistance package to Ukraine and urges EU institutions and national governments to strengthen their support. Local authorities, directly in touch with citizens, continue to deliver essential services despite threats of conflict and energy blackmail.

Commitment to Cooperation
Europe’s municipalities and regions remain committed to supporting their Ukrainian peers through decentralised cooperation, city-to-city and region-to-region partnerships, and international solidarity efforts. Strengthening these ties will help ensure Ukraine’s continued development, resilience, and democratic future.

For more information, contact:

Project Officer – International Partnerships (U-Lead)

TARAN Stanislav In Bridges of Trust, Bridges of Trust, Local democracy, Local democracy, Press, Projects and Programmes, Projects and programmes, Publications

European social partners with Ukraine

Social partners offer solidarity and support in response to the Russian invasion

The European social partners for local and regional governments, CEMR and EPSU, have jointly expressed their strong condemnation of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, calling it a grave violation of international law and a direct threat to democracy and peace in Europe.

In a statement released through the European Social Dialogue Committee, the two organisations extended full support to the Ukrainian people, especially to workers in cities, municipalities, and local public services, who continue to serve their communities under attack.

“Our thoughts are with first responders, emergency services workers and municipal staff who are ensuring the delivery of basic services, despite the ongoing destruction,” the statement reads.

CEMR and EPSU pledged to mobilise both material assistance and technical expertise to support their peers in Ukraine and urged the EU and international community to provide shelter and asylum for those fleeing the war.

As municipalities across Europe begin to welcome displaced persons, the statement also highlights the importance of supporting local migration services and coordinating with national governments to ensure dignified reception and integration.

For more information, contact:

Project Officer – International Partnerships (U-Lead)

TARAN Stanislav In Bridges of Trust, Bridges of Trust, Governance, Governance, Local democracy, Local democracy, Press, Projects and Programmes, Projects and programmes, Publications, Ukraine reconstruction

Local support to Ukraine

European local and regional governments denounce Russia’s aggression and pledge solidarity with Ukrainian communities

European local and regional governments have expressed their strongest condemnation of Russia’s repeated attacks and violations of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. They reject any attempt to dismantle a free and democratic state in Europe, stressing that these acts threaten peace and democracy across the continent.

Solidarity with Ukrainian Communities
Mayors, councils, and regional leaders stand firmly with their peers in Ukraine, municipalities, hromadas, districts, and their associations, who remain on the frontline providing essential services to citizens under the constant threat of bombings and destruction of infrastructure.

Commitment to Support
Local and regional governments across Europe, representing 60 national associations in 40 countries, commit to offering Ukrainian communities the materials, expertise, and assistance needed to face the ongoing crisis. They also prepare to respond to the humanitarian consequences, including the likely arrival of refugees, in close coordination with national governments.

City Diplomacy for Peace
Rooted in a tradition of local democracy and city diplomacy since 1951, European municipalities reaffirm their belief in peace and cooperation. They call on Russia to cease its aggression, withdraw from Ukraine, including Donbas and Crimea, and respect international law.

Looking Ahead
Despite the violence, local leaders remain convinced that diplomacy between cities can once again be a powerful force for unity, peace, and rebuilding across Europe.

For more information, contact:

Project Officer – International Partnerships (U-Lead)

TARAN Stanislav In Bridges of Trust, Bridges of Trust, EU enlargement and Eastern Partnership, Impact community Society, PLATFORMA, PLATFORMA, Press, Projects and Programmes, Projects and programmes, Publications, Twinning, Ukraine reconstruction

Building partnerships with Ukraine

Key factors for successful and sustainable partnerships between Ukrainian and EU local governments

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Ukrainian municipalities have a long tradition of international cooperation, especially with their counterparts in European Union (EU) member states. Today, this cooperation is more relevant than ever. Municipalities seek to improve local services, modernise administration, attract investment, and promote tourism and culture by learning from and working with EU partners.

At the same time, establishing meaningful partnerships is not straightforward. Many municipalities, particularly those with limited international experience and resources, face challenges in sustaining long-term cooperation. To respond to this need, the Bridges of Trust initiative was launched to support exchange, promote best practices, and help local governments in Ukraine and the EU build effective partnerships.

Mapping cooperation

Ukraine’s decentralisation reform, launched in 2014, created 1,469 consolidated territorial communities, strengthening local governance and budgets. This has enabled municipalities to take greater responsibility for international engagement. Reports by the European Commission and the European Parliament have recognised Ukraine’s decentralisation as a success story, while also stressing the need to safeguard its achievements through constitutional reform.

Success factors in municipal cooperation

Drawing on decades of European experience with twinning and decentralised cooperation, several factors emerge as critical to success:

Careful partner selection, ensuring shared interests and commitment.
Clear partnership strategies with defined objectives.
Sustainable planning and dedicated support structures (e.g. steering committees).
Joint financing and access to external funding.
Active involvement of schools, youth, and citizens to broaden visibility.
Political leadership and motivated staff, supported by international departments.
A strong European dimension to reinforce unity and common identity.

Challenges facing Ukrainian municipalities

Despite progress, obstacles remain. Studies of cooperation with Polish and other EU municipalities highlight recurring issues:

Partnerships that exist only on paper, with little or no joint activity.
Limited staff capacity, foreign language barriers, and a lack of experience in managing international projects.
Insufficient awareness among citizens of the benefits of cooperation.
Irregular contacts and a lack of strategic alignment between partners.
Funding shortages for travel, exchanges, and project implementation.

The COVID-19 pandemic has created both challenges and opportunities. While some partnerships stalled due to travel restrictions, others adapted by embracing online platforms. Virtual exchanges, such as U-LEAD’s study visits and the Bridges of Trust online forums, demonstrated how digital tools can sustain and even intensify cooperation.

Looking ahead

Above all, motivation and leadership remain the decisive factors. As Ukrainian officials note, training and case studies are valuable, but without committed local leaders and engaged staff, partnerships cannot thrive. Conversely, municipalities with strong motivation but little experience can quickly grow if supported with targeted training, funding, and practical guidance.

International municipal cooperation is not simply an instrument of solidarity: it is a strategic investment in Ukraine’s recovery, resilience, and European future. By learning from each other, municipalities in Ukraine and the EU can build sustainable partnerships that deliver tangible results for their communities and strengthen the foundations of a common European identity.

Read the study here

For more information, contact: