Oslo, 31 January 2024 – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on 23-24 January participated in a seminar in Norway organized by the Norwegian Defence Research Establishment. The seminar, titled “Lessons from Ukraine,” aimed to enhance understanding among Norwegian public and private sector actors about Ukrainian recovery and resilience strategies.

UNDP's presentation focused on the findings from comprehensive energy damage assessments the agency conducted in Ukraine. These assessments are critical in efforts to restore Ukraine's energy systems – not only to their former state, but in a manner that is more resilient, efficient, and environmentally sustainable.

One central theme was thus the acceleration of development towards a green transition and strengthening the energy independence of Ukraine. UNDP highlighted the challenges faced by the Ukrainian energy system, which is still operating in an emergency mode, causing severe risks of disruption to the availability of essential public services like electricity, water, and heating supplies.

The seminar also served as a platform to acknowledge and appreciate Norway's substantial contributions through its Nansen aid programme. This programme has been instrumental in helping Ukraine to strengthen its energy infrastructure. The support from Norway is a cornerstone in UNDP’s strategy to expedite actions that bolster energy security and transition towards innovative, efficient, and sustainable energy resource utilization.

Looking ahead in 2024, UNDP anticipates that Nansen programme funds, channelled through UNDP Ukraine, will bring significant benefits to over 1.2 million people across Odesa, Kharkiv, and other regions in Ukraine. 

“UNDP is proud to be at the forefront of the path towards building a more resilient and sustainable future for Ukraine, said Martine Jahre, UNDP Recovery Analyst. “We remain committed to our work in Ukraine, and are grateful for the continued support of our partners in these endeavours.”

Media enquiries: Yuliia Samus, UNDP Ukraine Head of Communications; e-mail: yuliia.samus@undp.org