The Swedish-Ukrainian Programme Polaris “Supporting Multilevel Governance in Ukraine” invites hromadas to join a new partnership within the focus area “Integrating Veteran Perspectives into Local Governance in Ukraine.”
Polaris supports local hromadas in implementing effective veteran policy and developing quality services for veterans, female veterans, and their families. From September 2025 to May 2026, six selected hromadas will receive expert guidance and targeted support to develop and implement new or improved practices in the field of veteran policy.
Partner hromadas will have the opportunity to:
• Receive expert support in:
– Developing or enhancing local veteran policy programmes;
– Implementing projects aimed at fostering a positive image of veterans and improving local communication;
– Developing or improving information mechanisms about available services for veterans and their families.
• Deepen their understanding of the national strategy and strengthen the role of veteran policy at the local level through thematic trainings and workshops.
• Access partial emergency material support for ongoing veteran-oriented initiatives or infrastructure projects.
Expected outcomes of the partnership include:
• Increased number of local initiatives and projects that promote respect for defenders;
• Improved communication and engagement with veterans and their families;
• Strengthened local systems for informing veterans about available services;
• Deeper understanding of the national strategy and a stronger local-level role in veteran policy, informed by veterans’ perspectives.
Who can apply?
Hromadas located in Ukrainian Government-controlled territory, with a population of 5,000 to 100,000 residents, that meet the following criteria:
• Political will to improve veteran policy;
• A functioning or in-progress veteran space;
• An appointed veteran affairs officer or specialist;
• Readiness to form a working group with relevant stakeholders and local service providers to implement changes.
Priority will be given to hromadas with existing veteran-related initiatives or practices.
A Memorandum of Cooperation will be signed with selected partner hromadas.
Applications must be submitted by 18:00 on 25 July 2025 via the application link.
Applications may be submitted by mayors, deputy mayors, secretaries, or municipal managers.
The selection process will include:
1. Review of submitted applications;
2. Online interviews with shortlisted applicants.
The selection results will be published in the second half of August 2025.
📧 For inquiries, please contact:
