The British Embassy Kyiv has launched a call for proposals under the UK Integrated Security Fund (ISF) to support national-level policy, coordination, and implementation on veterans’ affairs in Ukraine. The programme will run from 1 July 2026 to 31 March 2027 and will provide up to £1,500,000 to strengthen the Ministry of Veterans Affairs (MoVA) as part of broader Security and Defence Reform efforts. The initiative aims to improve coordination between defence, security, and social recovery systems while ensuring that veteran support is informed by community-level service delivery.
This funding builds on earlier UK-supported work that strengthened MoVA’s internal capacity and engaged civil society organisations in shaping veteran-related policies and legislation. The new programme focuses on enhancing MoVA’s institutional capacity in line with Ukraine’s National Veterans Strategy 2030, including improving digital platforms like Veteran Pro, strengthening data and analytical systems, and supporting evidence-based policymaking and scenario planning to address veterans’ needs more effectively.
A key priority of the programme is improving coordination between MoVA and other Ukrainian government ministries to ensure better integration of veteran services across defence, social recovery, and public service systems. It also emphasizes strategic communication to align national and regional implementation, and stronger collaboration with civil society organisations and analytical centres to support policy development and implementation, including alignment with broader national strategies such as the Ukraine Plan.
The call also highlights the importance of mainstreaming gender equality, disability inclusion, and broader social inclusion within veteran policies, including the implementation of gender-responsive budgeting in line with Ukraine’s legal framework. Strengthening institutional capacity in these areas is considered essential for ensuring equitable access to services for all veterans, including women and disabled veterans.
The UK aims to fund a single project or consortium capable of addressing most or all of these objectives, with strong coordination expected with other international partners, including the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and Canadian-supported programmes. Flexibility and adaptability to Ukraine’s evolving political and operational context will be essential, along with clear planning for long-term sustainability and exit strategies.
Only non-profit organisations, including international organisations, INGOs, and local civil society groups (individually or in consortia), are eligible to apply. Projects should demonstrate clear, sustainable outcomes, alignment with existing donor efforts, and potential for scalability. Co-funding is encouraged, and proposals must be implemented and fully completed by 31 March 2027.
Proposals must be submitted to the British Embassy Kyiv by 15 May 2026, with evaluation expected by the end of May and shortlisted applicants notified shortly thereafter. The selection process is competitive, and only successful applicants will receive funding, with no obligation on the Embassy to provide feedback on unsuccessful bids.
