Why a ‘whole-of-society’ model is essential for Ukraine’s recovery

Restoring the country’s human capital through state–civil society cooperation

Research paper

Published 22 June 2026

ISBN: 978 1 78413 686 4

Image — Teenagers from the village of Prybuzke in Mykolaiv oblast take part in activities as part of an annual meeting of the UActive network, March 2026. Copyright © SaveED Foundation.

A group of teenagers in white t-shirts lay on the ground, forming a circle and raising their hands together.

Ukraine’s wartime resilience is due in no small part to its ‘whole-of-society’ model of defence – which requires a high level of mobilization among citizens, local community leaders, philanthropic organizations and the private sector. Civil society stands willing to apply this innovative and collaborative spirit to the post-war recovery.

A ’whole-of-society’ recovery can only happen if everyone – from the state authorities and local government to civil society, the Ukrainian private sector and international donors – is able to contribute and collaborate effectively.

This research paper by Orysia Lutsevych and Jaroslava Barbieri of the Ukraine Forum draws on the findings from the 2026 Chatham House survey of civil society organizations (CSOs), in addition to original research and relevant public opinion polling from other sources, to show which elements of the recovery are working and what more is needed to ensure that recovery processes are truly inclusive.

DOI: 10.55317/9781784136864