The future of Ukrainian cities - transformation through radical collaboration

Urban centers in Ukraine are at the forefront of addressing both the challenges and the opportunities associated with reimagining socio-economic and cultural recovery and renewal. As key drivers of change, these cities are essential arenas for transformative initiatives. The Mayors for Economic Growth (M4EG) Initiative, led by the EU and UNDP, connects over 200 Ukrainian cities, including Lviv, Kharkiv, Mykolaiv, Trostianets, and many more, in a shared mission to navigate new paths of economic development that respects people and planetary limits while managing ongoing crises. Through a mission-oriented innovation strategy, the M4EG has collaborated with over 20 cities across Ukraine in recent years. This partnership has showcased the vital role that international actors can play in bolstering the resilience and renewal of urban centers, by reinforcing their inherent systemic capacities to adapt and thrive. The networking event will serve as a platform to recognize and celebrate these pioneering efforts of Ukrainian cities and the innovative experiments conducted under complex and highly uncertain conditions, characterized by significant security challenges. This gathering will address the intricate uncertainties facing cities in conflict, emphasizing the necessity for inventive and interdisciplinary methods of collaboration and problem-solving. It aims to foster co-creation, enhance adaptability, and build a trust-based, collaborative ecosystem that transcends traditional bureaucratic structures. The event will pose critical questions regarding integrating diverse capabilities, support mechanisms and stakeholders to create synergistic outcomes. Hosted by the Lviv City institute, Ukraine and UNDP, the event will convene diverse stakeholders, including government entities, the private sector, academia, and civil society.