Local Governments in Ukraine's Recovery

Local Governments at the Heart of Ukraine’s Resilience, Reconstruction, and European Integration

As Ukraine continues its courageous and determined fight for freedom and democracy, local and regional governments stand at the forefront of the country’s resilience and recovery. Across Ukraine, municipalities are playing a pivotal role in responding to the challenges of wartime destruction, leading reconstruction efforts, and advancing Ukraine’s path toward European integration.

Decentralisation as a Foundation for Resilience

Ukraine’s decentralisation reform, initiated years before the full-scale Russian invasion, has become one of the country’s greatest strengths. Empowered local authorities have mobilised communities, safeguarded essential services, and led local reconstruction efforts, often in partnership with residents and civil society. Municipalities have ensured water, electricity, medical supplies, and shelter, even under occupation and communication blackouts.

The example of Novobilouska hromada in Chernihiv region, where local authorities swiftly protected sensitive information and are now leading reconstruction efforts, highlights the importance of local self-governance in times of war.

Bridges of Trust: Rebuilding Ukraine through partnership with the EU municipalities

International cooperation has further enhanced local resilience. Projects such as Bridges of Trust, led by CEMR in cooperation with Association of Ukrainian Cities and with support of U-LEAD with Europe Programme, connect Ukrainian municipalities with European partners, fostering knowledge exchange and joint reconstruction projects. To date, over 30 Ukrainian municipalities have partnered with counterparts from across Europe, submitting more than 40 joint project proposals focused on recovery and sustainable development.

These partnerships go beyond solidarity; they promote mutual learning, strengthen democratic governance, and contribute to Ukraine’s European integration by aligning local development practices with EU standards and values.

Digital Tools for Transparency and Efficiency

Innovative digital solutions also play a key role. Ukraine’s Prozorro e-procurement system and the DREAM (Digital Restoration Ecosystem for Accountable Management) platform ensure transparency and accountability in reconstruction projects. These tools not only increase public trust but also facilitate international donor engagement by offering real-time data on funded projects.

The Big Recovery Portal empowers civil society and local communities to monitor reconstruction efforts, report issues, and uphold high standards of integrity and efficiency. Such digital initiatives are critical to ensuring effective use of resources and advancing Ukraine’s EU accession ambitions.

CEMR has developed the Matchmaking Platform, a digital tool connecting towns, cities, and local authorities across Europe, with a special focus on Ukrainian communities. This online platform enables quick peer interactions, joint projects in key cooperation areas, access to funding opportunities, best practices, and enhances international visibility.

Start cooperation on the Matchmaking Platform here.

The Way Forward

Ukraine’s local and regional governments are driving recovery, resilience, and reform. Through international partnerships, digital innovation, and Community engagement through Bridges of Trust, they are shaping a democratic, European future for Ukraine. As CEMR and its members continue to stand with Ukraine, supporting municipalities in their efforts remains essential for a united and resilient Europe.

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