Strengthening support for victims in communities: conference results

On May 20, 2025, the national conference "Path to Resilience: Strategies for Supporting Victims of Explosive Ordnance in Communities" was held in Kyiv. The event brought together representatives of government authorities, humanitarian organizations, communities, and experts working in the field of protection and rehabilitation of conflict-affected populations. 

The discussions focused on the needs of individuals injured by explosive ordnance and the challenges faced by communities in ensuring comprehensive support. Participants shared recent research findings, presented tools for community self-assessment, and introduced for the first time the draft National Action Plan on Assistance to Victims of Explosive Ordnance in Ukraine. 

Particular attention was paid to inter-agency coordination, the role of local authorities in establishing effective referral mechanisms, and access to medical, psychological, rehabilitation, and social services. One of the core topics was the creation of accessible and inclusive environments through the implementation of universal design principles that address the needs of victims and their families. 

The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) actively participated in the conference, with Jakub Walenda, Head of the Humanitarian Disarmament and Peacebuilding Programme and Co-Chair of the Victim Assistance Working Group, presenting the organization’s contributions. DRC shared its experience and challenges related to explosive ordnance. 

The conference marked another step forward in strengthening cooperation among all relevant stakeholders in the pursuit of resilient, safe, and inclusive communities.