Ukraine creates a barrier-free environment: which cities will receive the first routes

At the presentation of the results of the School of Barrier-Free Routes, 13 best projects developed within this program for the cities of Ukraine were presented.

Deputy Minister Natalia Kozlovska emphasized the importance of barrier-free access as a key principle of state policy. She noted that it is about responsibility towards people and the systematic implementation of it in spatial planning and approaches to community development to ensure that everyone has the opportunity for free movement and participation in the life of cities and settlements.

Work on barrier-free legislation

A separate area of work is the creation of a bill 'On the Basic Principles of State Policy on Creating A Barrier-Free Environment in Ukraine', aimed at implementing uniform accessibility standards for all regions.

The Ministry of Community and Territory Development is actively expanding the 'Movement Without Barriers' project to various communities. The training program of the School of Barrier-Free Routes involved more than 60 participants from 15 pilot communities and led to the creation of 15 new projects.

Quote from Natalia Kozlovska: 'Barrier-free access is about dignity and equal opportunities for everyone in Ukraine.'

The event was attended by representatives of various organizations and important aspects of creating barrier-free conditions in Ukraine were discussed.

The Embassy of Japan in Ukraine reported that the School of Barrier-Free Routes was established in 2025 with the support of UNDP Ukraine and the Ministry of Community and Territory Development of Ukraine with assistance from the Government of Japan.

As a result of the work of the School of Barrier-Free Routes and the School of Universal Design across Ukraine, projects aimed at improving accessibility and equal opportunities for all citizens have been developed.