UN4UkrainianCities Project Showcases Progress at Urban Development Committee
The UN4UkrainianCities project was in the spotlight at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, showcasing its innovative work on urban reconstruction and sustainable development in Ukraine. The week's events, which included the UNECE Forum of Mayors and the 85th session of the Committee on Urban Development, Housing and Land Management, highlighted the project's progress and its significance for the future of Ukrainian cities.
Rebuilding Futures in Kharkiv and Mykolaiv
The week kicked off with the opening of the UN4UkrainianCities exhibition "Rebuilding Futures in Kharkiv and Mykolaiv." This powerful showcase, on display from September 30 to October 4, provides a window into the collaborative efforts to envision sustainable, resilient futures for these Ukrainian cities.
UNECE Executive Secretary Tatiana Molcean delivered opening remarks, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in urban reconstruction. She was joined by Oleksandr Senkevych, Mayor of Mykolaiv, and renowned architects Lord Norman Foster of the Norman Foster Foundation and Giulio De Carli of One Works Foundation, underscoring the project's blend of local leadership and global expertise.
Cities are at the Forefront of Global Sustainability at the Forum of Mayors
The Forum of Mayors, which followed the exhibition opening, brought together urban leaders from across the UNECE region to discuss pressing challenges and innovative solutions. Key themes emerged throughout the day:
Preparing for a future where 70% of the global population will live in urban areas by 2050
The increasing role of cities in achieving global sustainability goals
A strong call for giving cities a greater voice in international decision-making
Focus on innovative solutions for urban challenges, from climate change to social inclusion
In her address to the Forum, UNECE Executive Secretary Tatiana Molcean emphasized the organization's commitment to urban sustainability.
“As we face rapid urbanization, climate change, and evolving mobility needs, UNECE remains dedicated to supporting local authorities. Our diverse initiatives converge on creating sustainable, livable cities for all. Together, we can harness urban innovation to build a more sustainable, resilient, and safer future.”
UN4UkrainianCities Project Presentation at the Urban Development Committee
The week culminated with a comprehensive presentation of the UN4UkrainianCities project at the 85th session of the Committee on Urban Development, Housing and Land Management. Representatives from UNECE, the Ukrainian Ministry of Infrastructure, and the city councils of Kharkiv and Mykolaiv shared progress on various components of the project:
Housing Policy Reform: Efforts to improve Ukraine's housing legislation for more affordable and sustainable housing solutions.
Urban Cadastre Development: Implementation of systems to enhance evidence-based urban planning.
Economic and Demographic Assessments: Strategies to address population changes and stimulate economic growth.
Masterplan Concepts: Innovative urban planning approaches for Kharkiv and Mykolaiv, including a Science Neighbourhood concept and new mobility strategies.
Project Tracking Tool: Introduction of the "City Plan Tracker" to monitor reconstruction activities.
Partners from the Norman Foster Foundation and One Works Foundation presented their work on pilot projects in Kharkiv and Mykolaiv, showcasing how international expertise is being tailored to local contexts.
“This collaborative effort is unprecedented. For the first time, a draft law has been developed with such a wide circle of experts and consultants. It has undergone extensive discussions with central and local governments, the public, and international financial institutions. Moreover, UNECE consultants ensured highly professional moderation of the Ministry’s working group.”
As the UN4UkrainianCities project moves forward, it continues to demonstrate the power of international cooperation in supporting urban recovery and sustainable development. The events of this week have not only highlighted the progress made but also reinforced the project's importance in shaping a resilient, sustainable future for Ukrainian cities.