The Swedish-Ukrainian Polaris Programme "Supporting Multilevel Governance in Ukraine" is allocating over one million euros in material support for hromadas by the end of the year.
The funding will focus on priority areas that align with the Programme’s strategic objectives:
- Supporting education governance in hromadas
- Strengthening the role of starostas
- Improving access to administrative services, with a focus on services for veterans
- Gender initiatives and citizen engagement
- International partnerships
- Recovery planning
- Implementation of energy-efficient technologies.
Procurement efforts are aimed at strengthening partner hromadas and providing crisis assistance to those affected by Russia’s full-scale invasion.
The Programme has already conducted an open selection process for partners under the Strengthening the Institution of Starostas and Enhancing Local and Regional Education initiatives. It has also launched a call for applications to support hromadas in combatting domestic violence and enhancing local citizen engagement.
“Supporting Ukrainian hromadas remains our top priority, as their resilience during wartime is key to preserving the local governance system. We strive to provide not only technical assistance but also practical expert support that equips hromadas with the necessary tools for sustainability and development. Our open selection format allows us to engage partners most in need of support to ensure service accessibility and effective governance,” said Oleksandr Mazurkin, Head of the Polaris Programme.
In the coming months, new opportunities will be available for hromadas to join the Programme’s support initiatives, including:
- Second round of partnerships for education governance support
- Second selection round for starosta support
- Improving access to administrative services, with a focus on veterans.
The Programme will also continue supporting the most affected hromadas, prioritising service accessibility and energy-efficient solutions.
This initiative is part of the broader strategy of the Polaris Programme, funded by the Government of Sweden and implemented by SALAR International. It aims to support hromada recovery, adaptation to current challenges, and preparation for European integration.
