The forum for IDP Councils in Ukraine is ongoing in Kyiv. Attendees gathered to discuss further plans for the activities of IDP councils and to develop algorithms for the integration and adaptation of internally displaced persons into communities.

The Ministry of Reintegration and the “Stabilization Support Services” Charitable Foundation, with the support of UNHCR and IREX organized the event.

“In 2022, we responded to challenges and gained experience. The world experienced a massive displacement at an unprecedented speed. Now, in 2023, we aim to transform our experience into a solid institutional infrastructure,” shared Vice Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk.

Thus, on August 4, 2023, the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine issued Resolution No. 812, which outlines the rules that should govern the Councils of Internally Displaced Persons.  Currently, there are 529 councils like this set up all over Ukraine.

The official named the main functions of the IDP councils:

– Protecting the rights and interests of internally displaced persons;

– Facilitating the adaptation and integration of IDPs into host communities;

– Supporting relocated businesses;

– Promoting job creation for IDPs;

– Participating in rule-making activities;

– Interacting with central, regional, and local authorities;

– Cooperating with public and international organizations.

“The Councils gather and relay feedback from IDPs to authorities. For supporting IDP needs and quality of work, decisions about IDPs in communities should be made with the IDP Councils,” the official stated.

The Vice Prime Minister suggested adding leaders of local IDP councils to the Coordination Headquarters to secure the fulfillment of IDP liberties. These representatives will present recommendations to the Coordination Center to formulate policies and rules.

“IDP councils should become the ‘voice’ of IDPs that everyone hears,” summarized Iryna Vereshchuk.