Developed within the project “YOUA – Shaping New Paths, Building Ukraine’s Future”, implemented on behalf of the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and carried out by GIZ Ukraine.
Project Rationale
The project responds to a systemic challenge — the lack of a coordinated approach among state, municipal, international, and civil society actors involved in return processes. Despite the presence of multiple initiatives, Ukrainians lack a single digital entry point that would consolidate information, services, and support contacts across Ukraine and EU countries.
Project Approach
The project combines analytical, consultative, and technical components and includes:
Key Activities:
- analysis of user profiles to identify the needs of different groups (including vulnerable populations);
- mapping of stakeholders and services in Ukraine and countries of residence, identifying gaps, overlaps, and responsibilities;
- assessment of existing digital and offline services (e.g. Diia, UISSS, e-Consul, UNHCR, NGO initiatives) to identify integration potential;
- development of the platform concept, including key functional components: personalised guidance plan; service catalogue; municipality profiles; partner ecosystem;
- preparation of technical documentation (architecture, MVP, ToR, security approaches) for further development and scaling;
- organisation of consultations and validation processes with government institutions, donors, and international partners.
Expected Results
- a developed and validated concept of the integrated digital platform, including functionalities and user journeys;
- a complete technical documentation package for further development and piloting;
- an analytical foundation for policy development in return and reintegration;
- strengthened coordination and interaction among stakeholders;
- increased readiness of municipalities to receive returnees through identification of pilot locations and development of roadmaps.
The project lays the foundation for an integrated digital ecosystem that enables a shift from fragmented information to structured decision-making, supporting safe, informed, and dignified return, as well as effective reintegration of Ukrainians in local communities.