Last week the FCDO hosted the Ukraine Recovery Conference, the focus was on rebuilding and reconstructing, putting aside discussions on current battles. It was a high-level gathering with participation from the FCDO and senior officials. The event was attended by high-profile guests including Rishi Sunak the Prime Minister, James Cleverley the Foreign Secretary, Volodymyr Zelensky President of Ukraine (online), Ursula von der Leyen the President of the European Commission, Anthony Blinken the US Secretary of State, and Yoshimasa Hayashi the Japanese Foreign Secretary. Amongst those representing the private sector were Richard Branson and Howard Buffet. However, the conference highlighted the need for greater representation from the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, a crucial matter that must be addressed.

There was an overwhelming feeling that the reconstruction cannot wait until the conflict is over and that rebuilding, which has already begun in some areas, needs to continue. There was a sense that although the UK Government were in support of UK companies starting this process today, the infrastructure and leadership for this pipeline was still in development.

The UK emphasised the importance of Ukraine becoming the "bread basket of the world" and supported expediting the recovery process. Discussions revolved around utilising seized Russian funds and the expectation that Russia would pay reparations for Ukraine's recovery. Promisingly, the government pledged to underpin war risk insurance in the Lloyd's market and provide assistance with local insurance. Additionally, the EU pledged an a further 50 billion to support Ukraine's 2023 budget and contribute to reconstruction efforts.

Ukraine's focus on rebuilding extends the importance and sustainability as a core aim as part of the recovery. However, the priority which needs to be tackled is that of landmines and it will be a gargantuan task to de-mine large areas around critical infrastructure, agricultural land and housing zones.

The conference stressed the significance of regional-level contacts and cooperation alongside state-level efforts. The Ukrainian officials who took part in the conference clearly personified the resilience and effectiveness of the Ukrainian Government. As a body, they have been able to continue to operate as normal in areas such as maintaining their civil service and administering pensions and vitally, continuing education for their children.

There is also no doubt that when it comes to advancement in technology, again Ukraine leads the way. This will be vital for a modern and effective reconstruction programme. In the realms of social infrastructure, it's clear that apart from the visible humanitarian aid, there are immense tasks ahead, centred around mending the torn fabric of Ukrainian society. Addressing disrupted education, mental health, separated families, and disrupted communities requires a commitment to transparency and inclusion.

There was a strong sense that Ukraine is determined to rebuild a stronger, modern and more sustainable country. Spearfish has now established Spearfish Ukraine LLC has already started working in-country to support and facilitate those who are working towards this recovery.

#UkraineRecovery #BuildingBetter #InclusiveReconstruction