On March 3, 2025, in Kyiv, the conference "Demographic Future of Ukraine: a Strategy for Resilience and Recovery. Civil Society Vision" provided a key platform for developing practical projects and initiatives aimed at addressing demographic challenges.

The event gathered representatives from the government, civil society, international partners, and experts to collaborate on implementing Ukraine’s Demographic Development Strategy until 2040. The conference was organized by the Ministry of Social Policy of Ukraine with support from UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund in Ukraine, the UK Government, and UAExperts.

In her opening remarks, Oksana Zholnovych, Minister of Social Policy of Ukraine, emphasized:

"Migration, declining birth rates, and population aging are already reshaping Ukraine. Ensuring a stable future requires not only state-level solutions but also close cooperation with civil society, experts, and international partners. Together, we are creating conditions for every Ukrainian to thrive at home, making Ukraine a country where people want to live, work, and build their future."

Stefan Kossoff, Development Director at the UK Embassy, highlighted the UK’s commitment:

"The One Hundred Year Partnership Agreement signed between the UK and Ukraine, includes a pillar explicitly devoted to our work together on demographic resilience. UK is proud to stand with Ukraine on this and reaffirms its commitment to helping Ukraine rebuild a stronger, smarter, and more inclusive society than ever before.

The Demographic Strategy of Ukraine until 2040 is more than just a plan - it is a call to action. It is a vision for a thriving Ukraine where returning citizens find opportunities, families are supported, businesses grow, and every individual, regardless of age or background, has a role to play in building the future. But this can only be realized through collaboration, since no single government, organisation, or sector can do this alone. That is why this conference is so critical - it is a gathering of minds, a convergence of passion, and a catalyst for meaningful change."

Mustafa Elkhanzi, Deputy Representative of UNFPA in Ukraine, Senior Emergency Coordinator, reaffirmed UNFPA’s commitment:

"Demographic resilience is not just about numbers - it is about people, their well-being, and their ability to shape the future of Ukraine. Managing demographic shifts requires not only strong policies but also inclusive partnerships that leave no one behind. Civil society plays a critical role in ensuring that demographic policies are inclusive, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of communities. UNFPA remains committed to working alongside Ukraine's government to build a future where everyone can contribute and thrive."

The event was organized in partnership with the Frontier Institute, which researches strategic challenges in conditions of uncertainty and risk, focusing on Ukraine’s transformation for global integration. Yevhen Hlibovytskyi, Co-Founder and Director at Frontier Institute, stressed:

"The challenge of depopulation has become especially urgent during the full-scale war. We cannot afford further population decline. That is why it is crucial for the Demographic Strategy to serve as a key metric in community-level project implementation, ensuring every initiative aligns with national demographic priorities. Achieving this without the active involvement of civil society is impossible."

Participants engaged in working groups to develop concrete civil society initiatives aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s demographic resilience, including:

• Assessing key projects and actions needed for the effective implementation of the Demographic Development Strategy until 2040
• Showcasing successful local and national initiatives that contribute to improving Ukraine’s demographic situation.
• Developing civil society-driven projects to address demographic challenges and create favorable conditions for community growth.

The conference reinforced a powerful message: only by combining resources, expertise, and initiatives can Ukraine overcome demographic challenges and lay the foundation for sustainable development.
 

Source: Ministry of Social Policy of Ukraine