Reforming Housing Policy with Local Governments
The housing policy in Ukraine needs modernization, and collaborative efforts are currently underway for reform. (Photo by Viktor Adjamsky)
On 3 May 2024, the Ministry for Communities, Territories and Infrastructure Development of Ukraine (Ministry for Restoration), in collaboration with the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) within the UN4UkrainianCities project, recently held a comprehensive online discussion focused on housing policy reform. The webinar engaged representatives from 50 territorial communities spanning various regions of Ukraine.
The session focused on the Ukrainian draft law "On the Fundamental Principles of Housing Policy” and on collecting invaluable feedback to forge a robust national housing strategy that resonates with community priorities.
Deputy Minister for Communities, Territories and Infrastructure Development of Ukraine Ms. Nataliia Kozlovska, representing the Ministry for Restoration, emphasized that drafting this law is a crucial initial step in overhauling housing policy and extended her gratitude to UNECE and other project partners for their support.
“The framework of the draft Law establishes the foundation for future initiatives, including developing the State Housing Strategy and legislative proposals concerning social housing and housing management. These efforts are poised to transform the philosophy and implementation of housing policies in Ukraine.”
Ms. Olena Shuliak, Chairperson of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on the Organization of State Power, Local Self-Government, Regional Development and Urban Planning, reaffirmed the Committee's commitment to advancing this new legislative framework as a part of the broader Ukraine Facility Plan.
Mr. Serhii Komnatnyi, a Regional Consultant of the UNECE and the webinar’s moderator, highlighted the current challenges in Ukraine's housing policy, including:
Outdated and conflicting housing legislation and principles needing modernization;
The lack of mechanisms to promote an affordable housing market, especially for social rental housing;
The absence of transparent and clear mechanisms for policy implementation;
A deficit in strategic planning mechanisms within housing policy.
This collaborative endeavour marks a significant milestone towards redefining housing policy in Ukraine, ensuring it meets the needs of its communities and conforms to global standards.
The UN4UkrainianCities project aims to support Ukraine in crafting a housing policy that not only addresses immediate needs, but also aligns with the long-term principles outlined in the UN Geneva Charter on Sustainable Housing, the 17 SDGs, the New Urban Agenda, the Housing Partnership Action Plan for the EU, and the Guidelines for the Implementation of the Right to Adequate Housing.