Over 400 guests from all regions of Ukraine and abroad attended the event. This is the first broad platform for dialogue between internally displaced persons, the state, the public sector, and international organizations.
The ministry and the Stabilization Support Services Charitable Foundation hosted the forum with backing from UNHCR and IREX.
Vice Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk introduced the framework supporting IDP assistance to the participants.
The main institutions right now are:
- The IDP Coordination Center.
- Coordination centers for civilian support (under regional military administrations).
- Community Resilience Centers.
- IDP councils will be formed at regional and district military offices and local self-government bodies.
Iryna Vereshchuk stated that IDP Councils should represent the views of IDPs. They should defend the rights and interests of IDPs. They must give feedback to the authorities on the needs of IDPs in a particular community and the effectiveness of their assistance.
Currently, there are 527 IDP Councils throughout Ukraine. These councils formulate needs, give feedback on service quality, and propose regulations.
“IDP councils are crucial in supporting IDPs. The members hold responsibilities and speak on behalf of 5 million citizens,” emphasized the Vice Prime Minister.