Central Europe’s Role in Ukraine’s Reconstruction

More than three years after Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukraine faces an immense recovery and reconstruction challenge—regardless of when or how the war ends. With over 43,000 civilian lives lost and more than 14 million people displaced, the scale of social trauma and infrastructure destruction is staggering. The road to reconstruction and economic recovery will be long and complex, demanding sustained, coordinated efforts from domestic and international actors. Central and Eastern European (CEE) countries have emerged as key players in this process due to their geographic proximity and shared history, and their vested political, economic, and security interests in a stable and rebuilt Ukraine. While the EU’s support is vital, CEE states have pursued their own policies and initiatives to assist Ukraine. These range from humanitarian aid and refugee integration to infrastructure investments and political advocacy.

What role do Central and Eastern European countries, individually and collectively, play in Ukraine’s reconstruction? How do these efforts align with broader recovery strategies, and what unique contributions do CEE countries offer? What best practices have emerged at the national level, and how can they be scaled across the region? How might stronger regional coordination enhance Ukraine’s recovery and the strategic interests of CEE countries?

This panel will address these questions and reflect on the ways in which CEE countries’ engagement in Ukraine’s reconstruction can strengthen regional leadership within the EU and reinforce long-term stability in Eastern Europe.
 
Please register for the discussion by clicking on the button above. Instructions for access to the event will be sent to registrants. For more information, please contact Zsuzsanna Végh ([email protected]).

The event takes place in the framework of GMF's ReThink.CEE Fellowship program.

The German Marshall Fund of the United States (GMF) is a nonpartisan policy organization committed to the idea that the United States and Europe are stronger together.