The Eastern Ukrainian Forum of IDP Councils marked the first interregional event that brought together representatives of IDP Councils from Poltavska, Sumska, Kharkivska, and Luhanska oblasts. The Forum provided an opportunity to discuss the challenges faced by IDPs in communities, find joint solutions, and strengthen the IDP Council network.
Forum Objectives
- To develop mechanisms for overcoming barriers to IDP integration in communities;
- To exchange experiences and best practices in cooperation between IDPs, local authorities, and the public;
- To establish communication among newly formed IDP Councils and define common directions for action;
- To increase the effectiveness of IDP Councils in communities.
Participants
The Forum brought together 76 participants, including representatives of local authorities, civil society organizations working with IDPs, IDP Councils, and human rights advocates. In addition, 35 heads of communities from Poltavska Oblast joined the event online.
Panel Discussions
Over two days, key discussions focused on strengthening IDP integration and improving their living conditions:
- “IDP Council as a Platform and Mechanism for Overcoming Integration Barriers in Communities, a Component of Cross-Sectoral Interaction Involving IDPs”;
- “Humanitarian Response and Socio-Legal Protection of Internally Displaced Persons”;
- “Realization of the Right to Housing and Protection of Property Rights of Internally Displaced Persons”;
- “Economic Opportunities for IDPs: State and Local Employment Support”;
- “Adaptation and Integration of Internally Displaced Persons: Interregional Experience and Best Practices.”
Workshops
As part of the Forum, participants worked in groups on the following topics:
- “Housing Rights of IDPs: Rapid Response and Long-Term Solutions”;
- “Employment and Business Support”;
- “Social Protection of IDPs”;
- “Joint Action Plan, Cooperation Among IDP Councils.”
Forum Results
- A joint action plan for cooperation among IDP Councils was developed to ensure effective communication and mutual support;
- Key steps were identified to strengthen collaboration with local authorities;
- Proposals were made to improve housing programs for IDPs, including the development of mortgage mechanisms;
- Forum participants confirmed the need to create a nationwide network of IDP Councils for coordinated and collective protection of the rights of displaced persons.
The event was held by the Charitable Organization “Charity Foundation “Stabilization Support Services” with financial support from UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency in Ukraine.