High-quality and accessible administrative services are among the key priorities of the Polaris Programme. To achieve this goal, programme experts actively collaborate with hromadas, fostering the development of effective networks of Administrative Service Centres (ASCs), sharing best practices, and implementing digital tools to enhance ASC operations.
Recently, Polaris Programme experts Denys Chechel and Olha Kalinichenko conducted a two-day working visit to the Volodymyr City Council in the Volyn oblast to assess the accessibility and quality of administrative services and identify opportunities for further development. Special attention was given to supporting veterans and their families, as the hromada is actively working to improve services for this important group.
Assessing ASC Operations and Exploring Modernisation Opportunities
During the visit, the experts carried out an audit of the ASC’s activities to evaluate the current state and discuss pathways for further development. The ASC of Volodymyr hromada currently offers over 300 different services, including passport services, vehicle registration, and driving licences—among the most in-demand services for residents. Additionally, for those living in remote settlements, 150 services are available through remote ASC administrator workstations.
A meeting with the Secretary of the City Council, Ivan Yukhymiuk, and the Executive Committee’s Chief Administrator, Iryna Losheniuk, focused on the modernisation of the ASC and the implementation of innovative solutions in the provision of administrative services. The discussion included specific steps to improve accessibility and service quality for hromada residents, as well as targeted initiatives for veterans.
Veteran Hub and Support for Veterans
In April 2024, Volodymyr hromada launched a Veteran Hub to support service personnel and their families. By September 2024, a dedicated parliamentary group on veteran affairs was established, and an advisor on veteran policy was appointed to the Mayor’s Office.
Polaris experts visited the Veteran Hub, where veterans receive support and assistance with post-service adaptation, as well as the Territorial Medical Association, which impressed the experts with its modern rehabilitation technologies. They also toured the local employment centre, where discussions focused on employment opportunities and vocational training for veterans.
Joint Steps Towards Development
The visit by Polaris Programme experts to Volodymyr reaffirmed the importance of a systematic approach to providing administrative services and strengthening veteran support policies at the local level. The discussions on new opportunities for ASC development, the introduction of innovative solutions, and improving service accessibility for hromada residents were a crucial step towards these objectives. The Polaris Programme will continue to support the hromada in implementing these initiatives, contributing to the creation of a comfortable and accessible environment for all its residents.
Photo: Volodymyr City Council website
