Recently, representatives of the Association took part in the 9th European Congress of Local Governmens "The Future of Decentralization in a Changing World" in Poland. It is a platform for exchanging views and a meeting location for local government leaders, representatives of regional administration, state authorities, non-governmental organizations and business. The program provided with more than 200 events: program blocks, discussion panels, workshops, lectures and presentations. Professional speakers, politicians, and public figures from Europe were invited to give speeches. The Congress discussions covered, among other things, the problems of modern urban planning, mechanisms of city and regional development, investment financing, city management, protection of environment, healthcare policy, and the activities of local governments in new realities.

Many of the topics of panel discussions were related to the reconstruction of Ukrainian communities, in particular:

• The Revival of Ukrainian Cities: Rebuilding, Institutions, Mechanisms;
• What Should Poland’s Participation in the Reconstruction of Ukraine Look Like?;
• Efficient Self–government in Wartime;
• Local Governments in the Process of Transformation of Ukraine;
• What Does the War in Ukraine Entail for European Local Governments?;
• Polish Support for Ukraine’s Integration with the EU;
• Refugees from Ukraine in European Cities - Exploiting Economic Potential and Promoting Integration.

As a result, we have established further cooperation with our European partners on decentralization, strengthening the capacity of local authorities and approximation to modern management approaches.  Europe has confirmed its strong readiness to further assist Ukraine in restoring our war-affected territories and maintaining international partnership.

We will continue to work together with Europe to find new ways to rebuild our territories.