Ukraine to Convert Empty State Buildings into Housing for War-Displaced Citizens

Pilot Project Aims to Provide Social Housing for Ukraine's Displaced

According to ХВИЛЯ: Ukraine is launching a pilot initiative to repurpose vacant state and municipal buildings into social housing for its internally displaced population. The project, a collaboration between Ukraine's Ministry for Communities and Territories Development and Habitat for Humanity, will focus on retrofitting existing structures rather than new construction. The initial phase will target three regions-Kyiv, Ivano-Frankivsk, and Poltava-where 60 to 70 buildings have been identified for assessment. This effort addresses a critical shortage of safe housing caused by the ongoing war.

Selection Process and Implementation Timeline

The selection of potential properties will occur from February through March. Candidates for conversion include:

• empty residential buildings owned by local communities,
• unused dormitories,
• administrative buildings suitable for redesign,
• and properties that have reverted to state ownership due to a lack of heirs.

The project's first stage involves creating a digital property database and developing design plans for the 10 to 15 most promising buildings.

According to ministry data, the war has damaged or destroyed approximately 13% of Ukraine's housing stock, equating to nearly 60 million square meters. Consequently, close to three million Ukrainians have lost their homes.

“Following a technical survey, we will determine which buildings are suitable for modernization and subsequent occupancy. We will select properties that allow for the creation of housing with basic conditions for the long-term residence of displaced persons,” the ministry stated.

Deputy Minister Nataliia Kozlovska noted that the outcomes of this pilot will form the foundation for a nationwide system of affordable social housing in Ukraine.

This project is a vital response to the humanitarian crisis triggered by the invasion. Its implementation seeks not only to shelter displaced individuals but also to optimize the use of existing public resources. A successful pilot could pave the way for broader initiatives to restore the country's housing infrastructure, a pressing need as the conflict continues.