The USAID RADA: Next Generation Program brought together donors and representatives of international technical assistance projects to coordinate joint efforts to build the capacity of the Ukrainian parliament. The meeting was initiated by the Verkhovna Rada Secretariat. Its head, Vyacheslav Shtuchnyi, moderated the event and presented initiatives aimed at ensuring the openness of the parliament, revitalizing the dialogue with voters, and improving legislative work.
Parliament Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk said: "We need a comprehensive approach from the 'new' Verkhovna Rada, which is constantly evolving. The most difficult decisions are made here, and we must ensure a high level of these decisions."
According to him, the parliamentary staff needs to constantly improve their skills, knowledge, and self-improvement, strengthening the institutional capacity of the VRU Secretariat.
The parliamentary leadership thanked all partners, in particular, noting the significant support of USAID.
USAID Deputy Mission Director in Ukraine Milan Pavlovic said: "USAID's most successful work with parliaments is achieved through true partnership. We listen carefully to each other, share our experience, and agree on the priority steps. And I am pleased that such a partnership has been established between the Verkhovna Rada, USAID, and our RADA: Next Generation program, and that this cooperation leads to substantial support for the VRU Secretariat, committees, staff, and parliamentary institutions such as the Research Service or the Education Center."
Marten Ehnberg, Director of the USAID RADA: Next Generation Program, added: "Our program has been doing a tremendous job supporting the parliament, but it takes a team effort to achieve maximum results, with all donors joining forces. Given the difficult challenges Ukraine is facing, our support is even more urgent now. We can already see the results of our joint work. This is a merit of everyone who contributes their resources, knowledge and experience to ensure that the Verkhovna Rada remains a strong pillar of Ukraine's democratic development."
