Chornobaivka discussed the results of the community risk assessment and plans for the future

 

A meeting of the Working Group on Public Safety and Recovery was held in the Chornobaivka community, where plans for the coming year and the results of the community risk assessment were discussed.

The meeting presented a detailed analysis of 47 risks identified in the Chornobaivka community within the framework of the Impulse Project, implemented by the International Renaissance Foundation and the East Europe Foundation (EEF), with funding from Norway (Norad) and Sweden (Sida). These risks were assessed by experts, administration employees, representatives of public organizations, and the veteran community. According to the data presented, 40 of the 47 risks are identified as critical, indicating a high level of threat to the community. Among the key risks of greatest concern were:

• Deteriorating security situation and destruction of infrastructure: these risks are most critical, as people live under constant threat of shelling and military action.
• Youth outflow and lack of return policy: this threatens the future development of the community, as young people leave and do not plan to return.
• Unpreparedness of the community for the return of veterans: there are concerns about the increased risk of conflict and criminalization, as well as the lack of proper rehabilitation and employment for veterans.
• Economic problems: business closures and lack of economic development exacerbate the overall instability.

The risk identification methodology included:

• in-depth research among community residents;
• consultations with various target groups;
• identification and structuring of risks;
• expert assessment and preparation of practical recommendations.

Based on the risks studied, recommendations were developed for both short-term and more strategic actions at the community level. In addition, communication recommendations were developed, which the administration and the Union Foundation will be ready to implement together in the community.

The participants of the meeting also discussed several problems, ideas, and plans of the community for the coming year, including:

• Work with veterans: it is planned to develop a veteran space in Chornobaivka, repair and equip a room for rehabilitation, cultural events, and attract specialists. The idea of ​​creating a rehabilitation room and conducting surveys among veterans to determine their needs was discussed.
• Youth support: it is planned to conduct basic training for youth workers, exchange experience, and provide equipment.
• Educational initiatives: the possibility of creating educational spaces for children who study online, as well as conducting additional electives, and in general, the development of sports, leisure, and culture was discussed.
• Psychological support: for children and adults to help them cope with stress.
• Security: the issues of purchasing safety equipment for local services and additional protection of critical infrastructure facilities remain relevant.
• Medical services: the possibility of repairing and filling shelters in medical institutions was discussed, as well as expanding the services of the Social Services Center by attracting medical personnel and equipment.
• Digital literacy: the problem of low digital literacy among the elderly and the need to train them to use online services was raised.

The Working Group meeting demonstrated the Chornobaivka community's active role in addressing urgent problems and planning for future development, despite the difficult security situation. The support of international partners in this process is important, as the community itself is ready for proactive action.