USAID RADA: Next Generation Program supported the Temporary Special Commission of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine on the protection of the rights of IDPs and other persons in organizing a parliamentary and public forum on "Strengthening the Protection of the Rights of Internally Displaced Persons" held on October 22 in Khmelnytskyi and attended by nearly 200 people. The forum brought together MPs, representatives of Ukrainian authorities at various levels, experts, the donor community and the public.
Theodora Dell, Deputy Mission Director of USAID in Ukraine, said in her opening remarks: "Assistance to IDPs is a step towards stability for all those affected by the war. However, emergency assistance is not enough, we need long-term solutions. USAID supports the efforts of the Verkhovna Rada to address IDPs' needs. We promote legislation aimed at reintegrating IDPs into society and strengthening social cohesion. The USAID RADA: Next Generation Program is helping to develop new draft laws, including #11281 and #11028. They provide benefits for IDPs and the creation of an interactive map showing where affordable housing is available so that more Ukrainians can find a stable place to live."
First Deputy Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Oleksandr Korniyenko also addressed the participants: "This is a huge number of people. The government must create exceptional conditions and opportunities to solve the problems of IDPs, in particular, those related to housing and jobs. The TSC is focused on specific examples to understand how to respond to these challenges quickly and effectively."
Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Kuleba also emphasized that "the issue of protecting the rights of IDPs is a key issue on the agenda of state policies across the country" and the government "focuses on the comprehensive development of communities and territories of Ukraine with an additional focus on IDPs."
Pavlo Frolov, MP and head of the TSC, said that over 10 months the Commission has considered 50 IDP issues. This time, the forum was devoted to several other important topics:
During today's meeting in Khmelnytskyi, members of the TSC on the protection of the rights of IDPs and other persons discussed the proposals raised at the forum and the activities of local authorities in Khmelnytskyi, Chernivtsi, Vinnytsia and Ternopil regions in meeting the needs of IDPs. Prior to the forum, the participants met and talked with IDPs in Khmelnytsky region.
RADA: Next Generation Program helps the VRU to actively engage with voters, examine the needs of vulnerable groups, particularly in the regions of Ukraine, and develop effective policies based on this, involving a wide range of stakeholders. Supporting the work of the Temporary Special Commission and its field meetings also strengthens the Parliament's control over the proper implementation of legislation.
