This briefing note, authored by the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) and CF Stabilisation Support Services, argues that sustainable recovery depends on investing in municipal capacity, strengthening local decision-making, and ensuring meaningful participation of displaced people, returnees, host communities, and civil society. It highlights the persistent barriers people face in accessing housing, livelihoods, services, and rights, and shows why local integration and reintegration will continue to struggle without stronger support to local authorities and area-based recovery approaches.
The note sets out practical recommendations for the Government of Ukraine, donors, and the humanitarian and development community to make recovery more inclusive, conflict-sensitive, and accountable. By placing displacement at the centre of recovery planning, Ukraine can strengthen social cohesion and create more sustainable pathways towards durable solutions for all conflict-affected communities.
