The Government of Switzerland and the United Nations Development Programme have launched a new $12.5 million partnership to support Ukraine’s recovery and strengthen resilience in war-affected communities. The initiative will focus on partner communities in Chernihiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Kharkiv, Kherson, Sumy, and Zaporizhzhia oblasts.
The partnership was officially announced during a joint Swiss-UNDP working visit to Kherson Oblast. Representatives met with local authorities, service providers, and residents to review recovery efforts on the ground and discuss priorities for further support.
The initiative will be implemented from 2026 to 2028 and will support stronger local governance, public financial management, and basic service delivery. It will also help expand access to social and health services while promoting social cohesion and the reintegration of veterans.
The partnership forms part of UNDP’s Area-Based Recovery Portfolio, a multi-sectoral programme that supports war-affected regions in rebuilding infrastructure, restoring essential services, and advancing Ukraine’s EU integration pathway. Through this approach, UNDP works directly with communities to deliver locally led recovery solutions that respond to reconstruction and development needs.
Switzerland’s support will further strengthen the area-based recovery model by investing in local institutions, improving service systems, and promoting inclusive development. The initiative is expected to benefit veterans, internally displaced persons, women, youth, people with disabilities, and other groups affected by the war.
Jean-Luc Bernasconi, Head of Cooperation at the Embassy of Switzerland in Ukraine, said Switzerland remains committed to supporting Ukraine’s development by investing in people and institutions at the community level. He emphasized that the partnership aims to help local authorities provide high-quality, inclusive services and create conditions for sustainable recovery and social cohesion.
Auke Lootsma, UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine, said the Area-Based Recovery approach enables UNDP to work side by side with communities to deliver practical and resilient solutions. He noted that Switzerland’s support will help address immediate needs while strengthening systems that can adapt and sustain progress across Ukraine.
The $12.5 million contribution is expected to help local authorities lead reconstruction, manage returns, strengthen resilience, and support reform processes. By combining international assistance with local leadership and national priorities, the partnership aims to deliver long-term, sustainable results for Ukraine’s recovery.
