UNDP's Early Recovery Initiatives Critical to Rebuilding Ukraine Amid Conflict

The impact of Russia’s full-scale invasion has been catastrophic. Poverty in Ukraine soared from 5.5% before the war to 24.1% in 2022, pushing an additional 7.1 million people into poverty.

As the war in Ukraine continues, early recovery efforts are playing a vital role in helping Ukrainians regain stability and rebuild their lives, according to Shoko Noda, UNDP’s Crisis Bureau Director, speaking from Kyiv. With a focus on supporting small businesses, providing skills training for in-demand jobs, restoring energy supply, and clearing debris and landmines, these initiatives are essential for establishing a resilient future for Ukraine.

The impact of Russia’s full-scale invasion has been catastrophic. Poverty in Ukraine soared from 5.5% before the war to 24.1% in 2022, pushing an additional 7.1 million people into poverty. Furthermore, approximately 80% of Ukraine’s thermal energy supply has been destroyed, and nearly 25% of the country is now contaminated with mines—an area nearly four times the size of Switzerland. Recovery and reconstruction needs are estimated to total $486 billion. During her recent visit, Noda engaged with senior officials in Kyiv, Odesa, and Mykolaiv to discuss UNDP's support for local and national recovery efforts. These discussions reaffirmed the strong partnership between UNDP and the Government of Ukraine. 

 

Key Recovery Efforts:

1. Restoring Energy Infrastructure: As winter approaches, restoring energy supply remains a top priority. UNDP is aiding in the import of vital equipment, such as energy transformers, while also repairing existing energy systems.

2. Innovative Debris Recycling: In Bucha, Noda visited the first debris recycling station in Ukraine, which transforms rubble into necessary infrastructure for roads and homes. This initiative not only supports the local economy but also creates favorable conditions for displaced persons to return.

3. Mine Clearance Operations: Noda highlighted the importance of mine clearance in Kyiv Oblast, where she met with female handlers and their trained search dogs. These dogs can clear up to 1,500 square meters of land daily, vastly outpacing manual demining efforts. This innovative approach is part of UNDP’s broader strategy to utilize technology, including drones and artificial intelligence, for efficient land decontamination.

4. Vocational Training for Economic Growth: At Higher Professional School 21 in Mykolaiv, Noda met with students learning professions such as electricians, web designers, and systems administrators. This vocational training initiative aims to address Ukraine’s skills gap, with the country needing 4.5 million additional workers to achieve an annual economic growth rate of 7% by 2030. These recovery efforts are critical not only for addressing immediate needs but also for establishing a foundation for sustainable development in Ukraine.

 

"We are dedicated to working closely with our partners to restore a sense of security and create opportunities for a brighter future for all Ukrainians," Noda emphasized. As the conflict continues, the UNDP remains committed to delivering essential support to rebuild lives and strengthen the resilience of communities throughout Ukraine.