SUSTAINABLE URBAN DEVELOPMENT AS A TOOL FOR REFUGEE RETURN: PROSPECTS FOR REBUILDING COMMUNITIES IN UKRAINE
Abstract
The large-scale displacement of populations caused by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine has created significant challenges for the country's recovery. Rebuilding Ukrainian communities requires not only physical reconstruction but also the establishment of social and economic systems that can ensure the stability and future growth of these communities. This article explores the role of sustainable urban development in the process of rebuilding Ukrainian cities, focusing on how these cities can become attractive for the return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees. The study delves into key elements of sustainable development, including the improvement of quality of life, the development of resilient infrastructure, the integration of environmental practices, and the promotion of social inclusion. The importance of developing economic opportunities that align with both local needs and broader European Union (EU) and international best practices is also emphasized.
Furthermore, the paper investigates how sustainable and smart development principles can be integrated into the rebuilding process to create environments that not only attract returning migrants but also promote long-term prosperity for the local population. The research outlines the need to involve displaced individuals in the reconstruction effort, leveraging their experiences and knowledge gained abroad to create a more inclusive, innovative, and resilient post-war society. Special attention is given to how sustainable development can address the socio-economic challenges that displaced communities face, offering strategies for their reintegration into urban life. The article concludes that successful community rebuilding in Ukraine requires a holistic approach that combines environmental sustainability, economic revitalization, and social inclusion and that the active participation of returnees in the process will be key to ensuring its success.
