Ukraine is preparing the full launch of the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Fund, which is expected to become a key instrument for rebuilding destroyed cultural sites. The fund’s funding target is guided by the scale of losses, estimated by the World Bank at €4 billion. Authorities are relying on international contributions, but establishing trust in the institution and ensuring transparent operating rules is a prerequisite for attracting donors.
“To attract funds to the UCH Fund, it is necessary to build clear, transparent processes and create trust around the institution,” said Tetyana Berezhna, in an exclusive interview with the Interfax-Ukraine, as reported by Humanitarian Media Hub.
The basic infrastructure for the fund is already being set up. This includes registration, opening bank accounts, and forming a management team. The Board of Directors has been presented abroad. It will decide which sites receive funding and in what order. The next step is selecting a director who will negotiate with partners and ensure accountability.
Ukraine has already received initial contributions from European countries, but this is not sufficient for systematic operations. International partners expect clear decisions on which projects will be financed. Therefore, launching a transparent selection process and accountability mechanisms remains a key step.
Meanwhile, negotiations continue on so-called seed financing, intended to cover the fund’s first operational phase. Once fully launched, the government plans to secure regular contributions from partners.
The fund will work with a range of sites — from major landmarks to local cultural institutions. Projects will include both large-scale initiatives and regional museums affected by the war. Demonstrating tangible results is essential to attract additional funding.
Special attention will be given to skilled professionals. Reconstruction requires experts experienced in cultural heritage. Part of the funding will be invested in training and developing such specialists. Without this, restoration efforts will not be effective.
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