On 21 September, the management and experts of the Polaris Programme “Supporting Multilevel Governance in Ukraine” visited Kharkiv and met with Mayor Ihor Terekhov. The visit addressed the city’s current needs, cooperation with the Association of Frontline Cities and Communities, and possible areas for further support from Polaris.

The delegation included Susanna Dellans, Team Leader of the Polaris Programme and SALAR International Representative in Ukraine; Oleksandr Mazurkin, Programme Manager at SALAR International; and experts working with local and national partners, municipal enterprises, and locally led recovery. The City Council team described Kharkiv’s current challenges and the issues that require practical solutions and the involvement of international partners.

“We understand how difficult these times are for you, but the way you are holding on is very inspiring. We want to talk about what you need right now,” said Susanna Dellans. She also highlighted the importance of practical cooperation that responds to the region's current needs.

Participants discussed Kharkiv’s recovery needs, possible support for municipal enterprise reform, and the preparation of projects to attract funding. They also discussed international municipal partnerships. Ihor Terekhov proposed developing closer ties with Swedish municipalities and municipalities in other Northern European countries.

“Every event must have a result. There is a political component — that is one area; an economic component — a second; and, of course, support for people — a third. All three are very important to me, especially the second and third,”Ihor Terekhov emphasised.

Cooperation with the Association of Frontline Cities and Communities, which Ihor Terekhov heads, was another topic. Its member hromadas face persistent security risks, destruction, and considerable pressure on local budgets. Participants discussed the challenges they share and possible areas of support from Polaris.

The visit helped the Programme team gain a better understanding of Kharkiv’s priorities and identify issues for further work with the city and the Association.