Ukrainian Civil Society News, June 21

This week London hosts the Ukraine Recovery Conference. For civil society, a driving force behind the reconstruction efforts, this conference serves as a significant platform to amplify its influence and underscore its crucial role in rebuilding Ukraine.

In this edition, we will delve into the active engagement of civil society in recovery initiatives, assess the key obstacles impeding their participation, and explore solutions to overcome these challenges. Furthermore, we present the latest updates from our partners and remind you of our job and grant opportunities. Stay informed, share with others and don’t miss out on the latest developments!

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Ukrainian civil society has actively participated in the country`s reconstruction following Russia’s invasion. According to a survey by Chatham House, conducted in November-December 2022, 67% of CSOs say they are actively engaged in recovery efforts. However, 66% perceive themselves as marginally included in reconstruction planning. Among the main obstacles to stronger civil society engagement, respondents name a lack of political will at the highest level (76%), insufficient information about state reconstruction planning (56%), and the challenges posed by active fighting and martial law (47%). To ensure civil society’s active engagement in reconstruction, respondents suggest establishing citizen engagement panels (83%), including civil society representatives in the National Recovery Council (64%), and establishing a dedicated recovery taskforce at the ministerial level (59%). 

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Civil Society News

USAID/ENGAGE Partners Join the Ukraine Recovery Conference 2023  

On June 21-22, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland jointly, in conjunction with the government of Ukraine, hosts the annual international Ukraine Recovery Conference in London. The event focuses on mobilizing international support for Ukraine’s economic and social stabilization and recovery from the effects of war. The participants include the USAID/ENGAGE partners Transparency International Ukraine, International Center for Ukrainian Victory (ICUV), the Center for Innovations Development, Razumkov Center, CASE Ukraine, and Anti-Corruption Action Center.  

In particular, the Center for Innovations Development and the RISE Coalition will present the eDem module developed for the Digital Restoration Ecosystem for Accountable Management (DREAM).  

Representatives of ICUV will join the event to continue their international advocacy efforts to secure Ukraine’s membership in NATO as a prerequisite for sustainable peace. 

On June 23, the USAID/ENGAGE partner Transparency International Ukraine will co-host an event based on the conference results titled “Building a Transparent and Accountable Ukraine: Key Steps to Recovery” to focus on steps Ukraine can take to prepare for its recovery and reconstruction process that promotes digitalization, transparency, and integrity.

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Transparency International Ukraine Analyzes How to Enhance Public Oversight in Ukraine’s Reconstruction 

Transparency International Ukraine released a policy paper that analyzes the current reconstruction architecture, highlights what needs to be improved, and explains steps to ensure enhanced civil society oversight. Click the button below to read more. 

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Environment People Law Highlights Priority Reforms for Ukraine`s Green Recovery 

As we approach the Ukraine Recovery Conference 2023, Environment People Law underscored the significance of a “green” recovery, emphasizing key reforms essential for this transformative process and explaining their importance. 

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Ukrainian Toronto Television Releases Video Investigation of Russia`s War Crimes, Reaching Top on Ukrainian YouTube    

The new video by Ukrainian Toronto Television exposes the war crimes of Russia`s Armed Forces. The investigation features footage from the phone of one of Russia`s marines, depicting military operations, inappropriate behavior, and a story of betrayal. The video has garnered 2.4 million views and 83,000 likes, reaching the top position on Ukrainian YouTube.

Watch

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SavED Launches Website for Global Fundraising to Restore Access to Education

In the wake of the full-scale invasion, Russia destroyed over 400 schools in Ukraine and damaged over 3000. To reinstate access to education in the affected communities, the charitable fund SavED introduced a website, enabling individuals worldwide to contribute to the reconstruction of school buildings, the development of shelter facilities, and the establishment of educational centers.

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Opportunities

Explore Our Opportunities

We are excited to offer a variety of opportunities for job seekers, civil society actors, and service providers:

  • Qualified specialists interested in our job openings are encouraged to review the listings – https://bit.ly/3UKgGN7 

  • Request for applications for civil society initiatives to provide even greater institutional and project support – https://bit.ly/3GUdk4e
  • Request for Proposals for Adaptive Mentoring and Training for CSOs – https://bit.ly/3qC7u20
  • Request for Proposals for Series of Trainings on Organizational Resiliency for ENGAGE Institutional Partner CSOs – https://bit.ly/3CeVx51

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ANTS Announces Leadership Hackathon for Local Innovations    

The National Interest Advocacy Network “ANTS” announced a call for applications for the HALLI project, a Hackathon for Leadership in Local Innovations. The project invites local leaders to participate in a competition aimed at developing practical ideas for communities, affected by the war with the potential to receive grant support for their implementation. The application deadline is July 10, 2023.

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What We Read

Successful Reconstruction of Ukraine Will Depend on Early Action, Bipartisan U.S. Effort, and U.S.-Europe Partnership

Viable Ukrainian reconstruction will require an end to the fighting, but ultimate success hinges on a U.S.-Europe partnership and the establishment of effective post-war security arrangements. Read insight from the new research from RAND Corporation to find our how partners intent to support successful reform and reconstruction in Ukraine. 

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