Continued international support is crucial for Ukraine’s future

Three years after Russia's full-scale invasion, Ukraine continues to endure attacks targeting civilians and critical infrastructure. Many citizens are actively engaged in defending their country. When the fighting eventually ends, Ukraine will have a population of millions of war veterans. Supporting veterans in their transition to civilian life is crucial for the country's reconstruction. This reintegration effort is already underway, even amid the ongoing war, for those who have left the armed forces for various reasons since 2014.

FBA collaborates with actors at multiple levels, including efforts to develop national guidelines for companies to integrate veterans, support local authorities in their reintegration work, and strengthen coordination between donors, civil society, and ministries. FBA also works to increase knowledge within Ukrainian ministries on how the war impacts attitudes toward gender equality, and to promote equal leadership.

"The social, economic, and political reintegration of Ukrainian veterans is vital not only for the veterans themselves but also for the country's social cohesion. It is about strengthening Ukraine’s resilience and its ability to rebuild a sustainable and prosperous society," says Johanna Gårdmark, Head of FBA’s Ukraine Unit.

While fighting a war, Ukraine is simultaneously pushing forward national reforms for EU and NATO accession at an impressive pace. Continued international support is crucial for maintaining the country’s motivation.

"EU and NATO membership are key components of Ukraine’s long-term plan for peace and security, which also strengthens stability in the entire region and across Europe," says Johanna Gårdmark.

FBA’s support to Ukraine

FBA is one of several Swedish government agencies working to implement Sweden’s strategy for reconstruction and reform cooperation with Ukraine, with the overarching goal of EU integration. Learn more about  FBA’s comprehensive support for Ukraine here.

VIDEO: Supporting veterans' reintegration

What support do veterans need to reintegrate into civilian life, and how can they best be met?

Ukraine's more than 800 Administrative Services Provision Centers (ASPC) play a crucial role in society, particularly during the war. They also serve as a key function in veteran reintegration, acting as a bridge between military and civilian life.

FBA supports the training of ASPC staff in how to interact with veterans based on their traumas and specific needs, ensuring they receive the assistance they require.

Meet our Ukrainian partners in the city of Vinnytsia and hear their perspectives on communicating with veterans and why this training is so important. Learning how to handle the reactions of those who have fought on the front lines while managing personal stress in a war-torn environment.