On 21 September, our intern Yasia Kovalenko had the privilege of attending the second day of the International Sustainability Forum (ISF) in The Hague organized by the Ukrainian Association of Sustainable Development Experts (ASDE). A critical initiative aimed at supporting Ukraine’s recovery and sustainable future. The event spanned two days, with discussions held in both the Netherlands and Ukraine, bringing together the Ministry of Communities, Territories and Infrastructure

Development of Ukraine, the Ministry of Infrastructure of Ukraine, the Ministry of Social Policy of Ukraine, the Ministry of Economy of Ukraine, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, as well as financial institutions and funds – IFC, EBRD, GIZ, EU Platform on Sustainable Finance and many others. Also the event joined Ukrainian and international companies from various sectors of the economy, public organizations and associations, the financial sector, UN programs a diverse group of stakeholders, including businesses from the EU and Ukraine.

The primary objective of this forum was to foster constructive dialogues on the path to sustainable rebuilding Ukraine, which has been profoundly affected by the ongoing Russian war against Ukraine, presenting immense challenges to both its economy and the environment. Together with international and Ukrainian national partners, committed to formulating a comprehensive Green Strategy for Ukraine, guiding its sustainable development over the next two decades, with ISF 2023 serving as a pivotal starting point.

Discussions during the Forum were incredibly diverse and enlightening. Notable sessions included a panel led by renowned experts, which examined the impact of global agendas on Ukraine’s Green Recovery Plan, emphasizing Environment Social Governance compliance.

Analyst Anna Ackermann shed light on Ukraine’s environmental and social damage assessment. Olena Voloshyna, Head of International Finance Corporation in Ukraine, praised the resilience of Ukrainian companies implementing ESG standards. Other discussions focused on the reconstruction of Ukrainian cities, the importance of demining, waste management, and strategic planning. Experts discussed legislative barriers to ESG principles and the development of Ukraine’s hydrogen sector.

The consensus was clear: Sustainable development is pivotal to Ukraine’s recovery!Therefore, let’s continue working together for a sustainable and prosperous future.

#SustainableDevelopment #UkraineRecovery