In the context of the war and the numerous challenges faced by communities in Ukraine, the issues of sustainable development and effective recovery are becoming extremely relevant. The key to success is to involve residents in strategic planning, use modern e-democracy tools and create conditions for transparent decision-making. The project “Strengthening Democratic Processes in Territorial Communities”, implemented by the Centre for Innovations Development with the support of USAID Democratic Governance in Eastern Ukraine, addresses these needs.
Modern challenges require a new approach to community governance, where every resident has the opportunity to influence decision-making. The use of e-democracy tools allows not only to restore infrastructure, but also to lay the foundations for long-term development, taking into account the interests of civil society and business.
Despite the challenging conditions of a full-scale war, it is crucial to develop participatory democracy in Ukraine, as trust and constructive dialogue between the authorities and the public are the basis for successful recovery of territories and building sustainable communities.
Within the framework of the project “Strengthening Democratic Processes in Territorial Communities”, strategic documents were developed and innovative solutions were implemented with expert support in four pilot communities – Pidhorodnenska, Pereshchepynska, Novoodeska and Kazankivska. A number of activities were implemented in cooperation with local leaders:
- All communities conducted surveys to identify development priorities. This allowed us to understand the needs of the population and ensure that strategic documents take into account real challenges and opportunities.
- Meetings were held with local activists, entrepreneurs and representatives of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to discuss recovery and development plans. The Ideatons became a place where innovative ideas were born and where residents could propose solutions for their community.
- To ensure transparency of the results, each community received dashboards that visualise the data collected and the analysis of priorities. This is a modern tool that facilitates monitoring and evaluation of plan implementation.
Each community has implemented unique initiatives aimed at improving the socio-economic climate and quality of life.
- Pidhorodnenska community: Developed an Investment Passport containing business ideas of local entrepreneurs. The projects include the creation of a logistics terminal, a waste processing complex with biofuel production, solar stations and other energy saving initiatives. Interactive dashboard.
- Pereshchepynska community: Created a Development Strategy with a focus on infrastructure and environmental projects. Residents have expressed the need to create recreational facilities, support businesses, and modernise water supply. The community is actively implementing initiatives to attract young people and support entrepreneurship. Interactive dashboard.
- Novodeska community: Implemented an Action Plan for the implementation of the Development Strategy, which focuses on social protection, infrastructure improvement, river tourism development and creation of conditions for industrial growth. Open public discussions made it possible to adapt the strategy to the needs of different population groups. Interactive dashboard.
- Kazankivska community: Developed a Comprehensive Recovery Programme and a Recovery and Development Plan, which include projects to modernise roads, build safe shelters and develop green energy. Active involvement of residents has helped to form a community of experts who prepare project proposals to attract investment. Interactive dashboard.
Thanks to the support of the Innovation Development Centre, communities have gained access to modern democracy tools. Numerous ideathons, workshops, and conferences were held to discuss best practices for engaging the public in decision-making. Particular attention was paid to the exchange of experience between communities, which made it possible to disseminate successful cases and implement innovative solutions.
The implemented project “Strengthening Democratic Processes in Territorial Communities” is an example of how transparent governance, public engagement and the use of modern technologies can create conditions for sustainable development even in the most difficult circumstances. Thanks to the joint efforts of local residents, experts and international partners, the communities have embarked on a path of effective recovery and growth.
For more information: The implementation of this project was made possible by the generous support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The Center for Innovation Development is implementing the project “Strengthening Democratic Processes in Territorial Communities” with the support of the USAID Democratic Governance in Eastern Ukraine Project.