Session 4: PSD experiences in Ukraine: Real talk on priorities, pitfalls and prospects going forward

Ukraine is a special case in PSD efforts globally, situated at the intersection of donor governments’ humanitarian, development, security, geopolitical and trade interests. Nevertheless, it also represents an example of wider trends in the global aid context, including a shift towards middle-income countries, a greater integration of aid and national (trade) interests, and greater focus on resilience in situations of conflict and other economic shocks. This session will provide an opportunity for frank exchange among DCED members and practitioners on their support to PSD in Ukraine and both the unique and transferable lessons emerging from their work.

➔ Andrii Dligach, founder and CEO of Advanter Group and founding director of the Center for Social Change and Behavioral Economics in Ukraine, on the biggest challenges facing the private sector in Ukraine and positive examples of business resilience in the face of conflict (virtual opening remarks)

➔ Pablo lo Moro, Helvetas, on Helvetas’ experiences in addressing PSD opportunities arising from Ukraine’s unique economic resilience as well as specific PSD challenges related to the war’s effect on land, labour and capital

➔ Armen Zargaryan, ITC Ukraine unit, on experiences in promoting economic competitiveness and resilience in Ukraine as well as reflections on practical tensions in donors' export promotion efforts

➔ Irene Frei, SECO, on SECO’s first-time adoption of a ‘tied’ private sector partnerships approach with Swiss companies in Ukraine, and reflections on how to ensure effectiveness on the ground

➔ Camilla Otto, EBRD, on EBRD’s experiences as largest institutional investor and lender in Ukraine

➔ Ukrainian business membership organization representative (tbc)

➔ Moderator: Holger Grundel, DCED Secretariat