At the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome (10–11 July 2025), ALDA  (the European Association for Local Democracy) reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ukraine’s recovery. During the event, ALDA signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Mariupol City Council, establishing a framework for long-term collaboration on social and affordable housing for internally displaced persons (IDPs). The partnership focuses on sharing European expertise, involving IDPs in decision-making, and mobilising donors and public funding to create sustainable housing solutions.

This support aligns with ALDA’s wider mission to connect Ukrainian municipalities with European institutions and foster knowledge exchange within its network of over 300 local authorities and organisations.

At the conference, Mariupol’s Mayor, Vadym Boichenko, unveiled an innovative social and affordable housing model under the Mariupol Reborn initiative. Already being piloted in Bila Tserkva, the project will soon provide fully equipped homes for around 1,500 displaced Ukrainians.

The model rests on four pillars: affordability (rents capped at 30% of income), human-centred design (energy-efficient buildings and communal spaces), transparent allocation (prioritising vulnerable groups), and scalability to expand across Ukraine. Developed with Big City Lab, PUPA, and Civitta, it draws on best practices from France, Poland, the Netherlands, and Austria.

This collaboration highlights the growing involvement of international partners such as the Council of Europe, the European Investment Bank, UNHCR, and European cities like Gdańsk and Rome. It reflects a shared understanding that housing is not only about shelter but also about stability, integration, and hope for rebuilding communities.

As part of its ongoing efforts, ALDA will further promote dialogue on social housing, including a dedicated session during the European Week of Regions and Cities in Brussels this October.

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