Vysokopillia, Kherson Oblast, 17 June 2026 — The Government of Switzerland and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have launched a new US$12.5 million partnership to support Ukraine’s recovery and strengthen resilience in partner communities in Chernihiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Kharkiv, Kherson, Sumy and Zaporizhzhia oblasts.

The official announcement was made during a joint Swiss-UNDP working visit to Kherson Oblast, where representatives met with local authorities, service providers and residents to observe recovery efforts on the ground and discuss priorities for further support. The partnership will be implemented in 2026-2028 and will contribute to strengthening local governance, public financial management and basic service delivery, expanding access to social and health services, and supporting social cohesion and the reintegration of veterans.

This initiative is an integral part of UNDP’s Area-Based Recovery (ABR) Portfolio, a multi-sectoral programme supporting war-affected regions to rebuild infrastructure, restore services and advance Ukraine’s EU integration pathway. Through the ABR approach, UNDP works with communities to deliver community-led recovery solutions that address the country’s reconstruction and development needs.

The partnership between Switzerland and UNDP will further strengthen this model by supporting local institutions, enhancing service systems and fostering inclusive development that benefits veterans, internally displaced persons, women, youth, people with disabilities and other population groups affected by the war.

Jean‑Luc Bernasconi, Head of Cooperation at the Embassy of Switzerland in Ukraine, highlighted the relevance of local-level recovery efforts: “Switzerland remains committed to supporting Ukraine’s development by investing in people and institutions at community level. Through this partnership with UNDP, we intend to help ensure that local authorities can provide high-quality, inclusive services and create conditions for sustainable recovery and social cohesion,” he said.

Auke Lootsma, UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine, highlighted the value of integrated recovery: “Through our Area-Based Recovery approach, UNDP works side by side with communities to deliver practical, resilient solutions. With Switzerland’s support, we’re not only addressing immediate needs, but strengthening systems and scaling solutions that can adapt and sustain progress across Ukraine.”

Background

The US$12.5 million contribution from the Government of Switzerland is part of UNDP’s ABR Portfolio, which focuses on enabling local authorities to lead reconstruction, manage returns, and strengthen resilience and reform processes. By combining international support with local leadership and national policy priorities, the ABR aims to deliver long-term, sustainable results for Ukraine’s recovery.

Media enquiries: Yuliia Samus, UNDP Ukraine Head of Communications; e-mail: yuliia.samus@undp.org