Ukraine Recovery Conference 2025

Today, as part of URC-2025, Andriy Tabinskyy moderated a discussion dedicated to the transformation of Ukrainian communities amid ongoing energy and economic challenges.

The event brought together representatives of European Investment Bank (EIB), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE), the Energy Community, Ministry for Communities and Territories Development of Ukraine, as well as regional and local government authorities from across Ukraine.

Speakers focused on the practical challenges faced by communities under current economic and energy pressures.

Oleksii Riabykin, the Deputy Minister for Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine, outlined the key indicators of Ukraine’s recently adopted State Program for the Just Transition of Coal Regions until 2030, along with potential future funding sources.

Violaine Silvestro von Kameke, Principal Advisor at the European Investment Bank — who has been working with Ukrainian communities for over a decade — reaffirmed the Bank’s ongoing support. She also noted the growing interest in integrated regional development and social entrepreneurship initiatives, such as the future Factory-Kitchen project in Sheptytskyi.

Urs Daniel Engels, Head of Division for Cooperation with Ukraine at the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE), presented the new GIZ Ukraine Power4JustTransition project and announced a €30 million contribution to the Ukraine Energy Support Fund from the Ministry.

Adam Balogh, Head of the Ukraine Support Task Force at the Energy Community Secretariat, announced the launch of a new initiative — Cross-Border Sustainable Renewable Energy Acceleration in Ukraine — which is also relevant for coal-affected communities.

Jaco Cilliers, Head of UNDP in Ukraine, shared recommendations for Ukrainian communities seeking greater support: strengthen anti-corruption mechanisms, ensure transparent local governance, build institutional capacity, and implement strategic planning tools.

Ivan Fedorov, Head of the Zaporizhzhia Regional State Administration, outlined the region’s cooperation priorities with international partners.

Andriy Zalivskyi, Mayor of Sheptytskyi — a pilot city for the just transition of coal regions — shared successful local initiatives and future plans, including new educational programs, the Factory-Kitchen project, and humanitarian efforts.

Thanks to all participants for an insightful and action-oriented discussion!