Communities now have a new tool that enables them to respond more quickly to the consequences of shelling.

Oleksii Kuleba, Deputy Prime Minister for Restoration, Minister for Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine, has announced that the Government has made a decision to accelerate the restoration of apartment buildings and dormitories damaged by the war.

‘This mechanism allows key restoration procedures to be carried out simultaneously rather than sequentially, as was previously the case. This reduces delays and enables communities to begin construction work sooner,’ explained Oleksii Kuleba.

What changes for communities?

Previously, in order to start repair work, local governments had to go through the full bureaucratic process:

• examination,
• project design,
• expertise,
• search for a contractor,
• conclusion of a contract,
• and only then – start of work.

Everything in sequence, step by step.

Now, it is possible to work in parallel. Examination, design, expertise and searching for a contractor can all happen at the same time. If the community already has a technical solution and designs, construction can begin even before the expert review is completed.

What remains unchanged?

Transparency. All actions are recorded in the Unified State Electronic System for Construction. All documents, including project documentation, expert conclusions and contracts, must be digitised and recorded.

How will this affect the e-Recovery programme?

Faster examination means faster submission of applications, verification and compensation payments to affected families. The Government has also made provision for targeted payments from local budgets, as well as compensation for temporary accommodation costs until repairs are completed or new housing is provided.

‘The goal is to make the process of restoring housing fast, understandable and fair for every Ukrainian,’ emphasised Oleksii Kuleba.

The community can decide for itself whether or not to participate in the new model. While it is voluntary, it is potentially much more effective.

Decentralisation continues. Communities remain at the heart of the decision-making process.