A public presentation of the findings of the study “How IDPs Integrate: Needs, Barriers, Opportunities” took place in Kyiv, organized by the International Research & Exchanges Board (IREX) in Ukraine as part of the “Unity for Action” program.
The event was attended by the chair of the Council on Internally Displaced Persons under the Donetsk Regional State Administration, representatives of the Department of Social Protection of the Population, and the Department for Ensuring Interaction with Local Self-Government Bodies of the regional state administration.
During the first session of the event, key research findings were presented, covering the current needs of internally displaced persons, the main barriers to their integration, and opportunities for enhancing social cohesion in communities. Speakers included IREX representatives: Yelyzaveta Trofimenko, Tetiana Dementieva, Svitlana Krot, Khrystyna Shovkoplias, and Kseniia Rondiak.
During the panel discussion “Joint Planning in Communities: How to Turn the Potential of IDPs into a Resource for Recovery,” participants discussed effective practices for collaboration between government agencies, local self-government bodies, IDP councils, and partner organizations. Particular attention was paid to issues of cross-sectoral cooperation, involving IDPs in decision-making processes, and developing policies aimed at their sustainable integration.
The event brought together representatives of central executive authorities, local governments, civil society organizations, and international partners, serving as a platform for sharing experiences and developing joint solutions to support internally displaced persons.
Over the past four years, the “Unity for Action” program has aimed to strengthen social cohesion, develop the leadership potential of internally displaced persons, enhance community resilience, and promote Ukraine’s recovery.
The participation of representatives from the Donetsk Regional State Administration in this event helps ensure that best practices for IDP integration are taken into account when formulating regional policy and implementing measures to support IDPs in the Donetsk region.