European CSOs Strengthen Collaboration for Ukraine’s Recovery

Ukrainian police delivers humanitarian aid to Maryinka, 25 March 2022

More than 20 participants from 14 civil society organisations across Europe gathered online on the 12th of February for a coordination meeting hosted by the Network. The session brought together organisations working on a wide range of themes in Ukraine—from sustainable reconstruction and decentralised energy to mental health, deinstitutionalisation, humanitarian logistics, and community resilience.

During the round of updates, organisations shared their current activities, the challenges they face in the rapidly changing wartime context, and opportunities to join forces. Several partners highlighted increasing strains such as power outages, limited access to frontline areas, overstretched local partners, and the need for long‑term structural funding. Despite these barriers, participants showcased an impressive range of initiatives supporting Ukrainian communities, local leaders, and frontline workers.

Key themes emerging from the discussions included the importance of green and sustainable reconstruction, the growing demand for mental health and psychosocial support, and the need for strengthened collaboration between European and Ukrainian civil society. Participants expressed a clear desire to better coordinate efforts, share expertise, and jointly advocate for more accessible funding instruments.

The meeting concluded with agreement on several follow‑up actions, including sharing contact details, coordinating programme information, and organising additional thematic meetings—both online and in Ukraine. Participants also expressed interest in joint activities around ecological reconstruction, community resilience, and capacity building for local organisations.

Here the full report of the meeting, including organisational summaries and next steps