Four Ukrainian Regions Prepare to Align with EU Standards

Expert Conference in Kyiv

According to Міністерство інфраструктури: An expert conference titled 'EU Chapter 22: Shaping Ukraine’s Future Cohesion Policy' took place in Kyiv. The event focused on preparing to meet the requirements of the negotiation chapter 'Regional Policy and Coordination of Structural Instruments.' The Ministry of Communities and Territories Development of Ukraine, in partnership with the 'U-LEAD with Europe' program, organized the conference, which brought together representatives from various organizations.

During the conference, the Ministry of Communities and Territories Development of Ukraine signed cooperation memorandums with four regions: Sumy, Zakarpattia, Cherkasy, and Vinnytsia. These regions have been selected as pilot areas to prepare for the implementation of EU cohesion policy principles. Participants also included representatives from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the Ministry of Development Funds and Regional Policy of the Republic of Poland, and the EU4Reconstruction program.

Importance of Cohesion Policy

Oleksiy Kuleba noted that

'joining the European Union begins with communities. And cohesion policy is not abstract documents or procedures, but a very practical policy: high quality of life for people, roads, housing, schools, hospitals, energy efficiency, accessibility, new jobs, and investments'

. He emphasized that

'today, Ukraine is on a unique path. We are simultaneously defending the state, rebuilding destroyed infrastructure, implementing reforms, and modernizing the governance system'

. Kuleba also added that 'we have learned to rebuild schools, hospitals, roads, and housing during wartime,' underscoring the importance of making decisions not after a crisis ends, but during it.

Thus, the conference marked a significant step toward implementing Ukraine’s cohesion policy, focusing on the practical aspects of adopting European standards in the regions.

This conference highlights Ukraine’s efforts to move closer to European standards amid challenging circumstances. The signing of memorandums with pilot regions is a crucial milestone for advancing regional policy, which can foster not only economic growth but also improve the quality of life for citizens. In the context of war and infrastructure recovery, such initiatives are especially relevant for ensuring stability and development in the country.

As Ukraine continues its journey towards EU integration, strengthening partnerships with neighboring countries becomes crucial. The recent developments in enhancing collaboration with Poland highlight the significance of regional alliances in achieving common goals and fostering sustainable growth across Ukraine.