Lviv Hosts 4th National Forum of IDP Councils Highlighting New Legislation and 'For the Future' National Awards

4th National Forum of IDP Councils

According to Рубрика — Суспільство: On October 21–22, 2026, over 300 participants from across Ukraine gathered in Lviv for the 4th National Forum of Internal Displacement Person (IDP) Councils. The event was organized by the Stabilization Support Services Charitable Foundation in collaboration with Ukraine’s Ministry of Social Policy, Family and Unity, and the Ministry for Communities, Territories, and IDPs. It received backing from the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) in Ukraine and the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC). The forum’s agenda featured strategic debates, hands-on workshops, live connections with regional IDP councils, and project presentations.

A significant development during the forum was the enactment of the updated Ukrainian law titled "On Ensuring the Rights and Freedoms of Internally Displaced Persons." This legislation formally recognizes IDP councils as a participatory mechanism for displaced persons in decision-making processes, obliging authorities to consider their proposals. Currently, over 13,000 individuals are engaged in these councils across Ukraine. In addition, preparations are underway to house IDPs in more than 50 newly established homes in rural areas. An expert group, composed of IDP council representatives, is also being formed to contribute to legislative initiatives.

Presentation of the 'For the Future' National Awards

The forum also featured the presentation of the national honors "For the Future" across four categories. Recipients included:

• Natalia Redko, Chair of the IDP Council at Bila Tserkva City Council, awarded for "Leadership and Advocacy";
• Valeria Prudnikova, Chair of the IDP Council at Kalush City Council, recognized for "Innovation and Initiatives";
• Olesya Myronets-Matushchenko, Chair of the IDP Council at Rivne Regional State Administration, honored for "Strength Through Cooperation";
• Konstantin Zhaldakov, Chair of the IDP Council at Dnipropetrovsk Regional State Administration, chosen by the IDP community councils as the recipient of the "Community Choice" award.

Forum participants underscored that housing remains the most pressing challenge for internally displaced persons. Vitaliy Bezgyn, a Ministry representative, emphasized:

"It is clear that housing is our most urgent issue. We work daily with international partners to increase funding for these programs."

Bernadette Castle-Gollingsworth from UNHCR highlighted the crucial advocacy role of the IDP councils, stating, "Supporting people forced to leave their homes is complex and carries great responsibility."

The forum provided a vital platform for sharing experiences and expertise among IDP council members, government officials, NGOs, and international stakeholders. Valeria Vershinina stressed the importance of social capital in helping Ukraine recover from the effects of war. Paula Gaviria Betancur noted that meaningful participation does not happen automatically; it requires strong institutions, political commitment, and ongoing investment.

Overall, the 4th National Forum of IDP Councils reaffirmed the essential role displaced persons play in shaping policies that affect their rights and freedoms. The event highlighted the expanding influence of IDP councils in Ukraine and reflected coordinated efforts by the government and international organizations to provide legal protection and support for displaced populations. Given the ongoing conflict and its impact on civilians, fostering inclusive dialogue-especially around critical issues like housing-remains paramount for sustainable social solutions.

In addition to the significant legislative updates discussed at the forum, similar initiatives are taking place across Ukraine, such as the recent Interregional Social Change Forum in Kharkiv, which focuses on enhancing support for internally displaced persons and improving community services. This highlights a growing commitment to address the needs of displaced populations nationwide.