Liechtenstein joins Estonia in critical reconstruction and capacity-building efforts in Ukraine

Liechtenstein will provide 268,000 euros to fund training programmes for two Estonian-led initiatives: HEAL Berdychiv, which aims to reconstruct Berdychiv City Hospital’s intensive care unit and train intensive care and rehabilitation medical personnel, and establishing EDUHUB, an early childhood education methodology competence centre in Zhytomyr.  

Liechtenstein’s support shows trust in ESTDEV as a reliable implementation partner in Ukraine, and the funding will allow ESTDEV to scale up these ongoing initiatives. Ireland has also committed funding to the HEAL Berdychiv project, making it a true multilateral reconstruction effort. 

“Liechtenstein’s decision to support two ESTDEV projects in Ukraine’s Zhytomyr Region is a strong vote of confidence in our work and, more importantly, a clear commitment to Ukraine’s recovery. I am especially pleased that HEAL Berdychiv is becoming a truly international effort, now backed by Liechtenstein, Ireland, and Estonia,” said Margus Gering, ESTDEV’s regional head for Europe and Cooperation and Development for Ukraine. “Ukraine’s reconstruction must invest in people, the teachers and medical professionals who keep communities running. Every training session delivered brings Ukraine one step closer to a future in the European Union. Through these projects, that future becomes more achievable,” Gering added. 

“Liechtenstein is pleased to enrich bilateral relations with Estonia by joining forces with ESTDEV to help reconstructing Ukraine. With today’s signing of the Memorandum of Understanding, Liechtenstein will contribute to ESTDEV’s reconstruction activities in the Zhytomyr Region. We are looking forward to constructive and professional partnership,” said Panagiotis Potolidis-Beck, Head of Division for Economic Affairs and Development of the Office for Foreign Affairs of Liechtenstein. “Empowering professionals who care for the community, be it in the field of health care or education, is crucial for the effective and sustainable reconstruction of Ukraine.” 

The capacity-building programmes will align with EU best practices while also taking into consideration the needs of local communities. Furthermore, these programmes are critical to ensuring sustainable development, as trained professionals can then pass on their knowledge to colleagues. Development cooperation efforts will ensure Ukrainian professionals have access to up-to-date, innovative professional development, ultimately supporting the country’s path to EU accession.