As part of the Polaris Programme “Supporting Multilevel Governance in Ukraine”, funded by the Government of Sweden through Sida and implemented by SALAR International, Serhii Sukhomlyn, Head of the Recovery Agency, and Susanna Dellans, Polaris Team Leader and SALAR International Representative in Ukraine, signed a Memorandum of Cooperation between the Recovery Agency and Polaris.

The Memorandum outlines joint efforts across several key areas, including the development of analytics and project prioritisation for recovery, the assessment of investment potential for hromada recovery, and systematic support for reconstruction and rebuilding processes.

“We have analysed more than 300 projects uploaded by hromadas to the DREAM platform. Each of these hromadas is open to cooperation and investment to implement their projects – in particular, to restore and develop specific facilities. However, from a practical standpoint, this creates a challenge for donors – the abundance of unstructured proposals makes it difficult to prioritise. That’s why the Ministry for Communities and Territories Development of Ukraine, along with us as its institutional partner, is introducing new approaches to project evaluation,” noted Serhii Sukhomlyn.

He thanked the partners for their comprehensive engagement with hromadas – aimed not only at implementing specific projects, but also at supporting long-term development. This includes recovery projects and the construction of new facilities to strengthen the energy resilience of regions.

“We are joining forces to make the recovery process of hromadas comprehensive, transparent, and as effective as possible. Our cooperation is based not only on well-prepared projects and attracting investment, but also on the active involvement of local residents in decision-making. We aim to create conditions where hromadas can not only rebuild but develop sustainably in the future,” said Susanna Dellans, Polaris Team Leader and SALAR International Representative in Ukraine.

The parties also agreed to organise joint events as part of future cooperation, enabling the exchange of experience between Ukraine and European countries.