Cities are at the forefront of tackling global challenges. They are committed to long-term development and promote values like freedom, democracy and human rights.
However, the tense global situation – from the impacts of climate change to Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine – is putting cities and urban development under pressure. Cities need to drive climate-friendly, socially just transitions while promoting economic growth. Ukrainian municipalities, in particular, face the challenge of implementing urban transformation and integrated reconstruction amid the war.
The Federal Ministry for Housing, Urban Development and Building (BMWSB) recognises its responsibility due to its long-standing cooperation with Ukraine and its role in the Group of Seven (G7) industrialised nations. It wants to use its expertise and international, trust-based relationships to promote urban transformation, especially in Ukraine.
The project supports BMWSB in preparing activities for the Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC). At the conference, representatives of governments, international organisations, the private sector and civil society discuss and exchange ideas to promote Ukraine’s long-term reconstruction. Germany is organising the conference in June 2024 together with Ukraine.
The project also assists BMWSB with its participation in the G7 meeting of urban development ministers in Italy and with shaping the urban development process.
It also supports BMWSB and German cities in organising knowledge for the EU’s mission to achieve 100 climate-neutral and smart cities. The mission assists 100 European cities in becoming climate-neutral and inspires other cities to be more ambitious in this area.