The European Commission, in cooperation with Ukrainian organisations, is launching a New European Bauhaus capacity building programme for the reconstruction of Ukraine. This partnership follows the meeting of the College and the Ukrainian government in Kyiv on 2 February, the EU-Ukraine summit on 3 February, and Commissioner Virginijus Sinkevičius's visit to Kyiv on 16 and 17 February, where cooperation, assistance for the sustainable reconstruction of Ukraine, and the 'Phoenix' initiative were discussed.

The aim of the capacity building initiative is to provide both inspiration and practical assistance to municipalities involved in Ukraine's reconstruction. The programme is being organised in cooperation with other partners by Ukrainian partners Ro3kvit, ReThink, the Covenant of Mayors for the Eastern Partnership countries, and the Architects' Council of Europe. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Commissioners Mariya Gabriel and Elisa Ferreira will also participate in the event with video messages.

Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated: “We will rebuild Ukraine. It is our duty, and we will do it. Ukraine should be rebuilt in the spirit of the New European Bauhaus to meet its needs. The process involves urban planners, architects, and engineers inspired by the New European Bauhaus concept. Our vision is to replace the devastation of war with opportunities to build an attractive and healthy future for Ukraine.”

Meeting the basic needs of Ukrainian municipalities

To address the needs of Ukrainian municipalities (hromadas), a series of webinars will be held starting in April. The first is intended to define the political framework for capacity building and introduce three modules related to various aspects of reconstruction.

The first module will identify potential cooperation models between the various participants involved in municipal reconstruction and ways to ensure the process is inclusive. In particular, it will explore best practices in resource assessment and allocation, participatory tools, and funding opportunities.

The second module will highlight opportunities for sustainable and inclusive reconstruction in Ukraine. It will introduce ways to incorporate circularity principles into post-war development strategies, exploring options for smart grids, autonomous energy, and chemical/physical material recovery.

The third module will address the issue of housing affordability and general housing supply in Ukraine. It will explore various models for housing-related solutions and the potential role of municipalities in housing management, as well as the link between housing and other sectors, such as social security and urban planning.

Following the first three modules, the Commission, together with Ukrainian partners and supported by the New European Bauhaus community, will analyse further needs and develop actions to help rebuild Ukraine.