Chantilly, July 6–7, 2023 – Ukraine was in the spotlight at the University of the City of Tomorrow. For the first time, this prestigious event opened its doors to international voices, welcoming a delegation of Ukrainian leaders. Among them were Vadim Boychenko, Mayor of Mariupol; Oleksandr Kodola, Mayor of Nizhyn; Yevheniia Kuleba, member of the Kyiv City Council and founder of the NGO City Garden; Olena Gunko from the IT Agency of Lviv; Dmytro Natalukha, MP and Rapporteur of the Verkhovna Rada’s Economic Affairs Committee; and Eka Zguladze, former Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine.

The Ukrainian delegation shared their vision and the challenges of reconstructing their country in the aftermath of war during a session moderated by Edward Mayor and Martin Duplantier. This inspiring moment highlighted both the similarities and differences between urban issues faced in Ukraine and those encountered locally in France.

Each year, the summit of the University of the City of Tomorrow gathers around 200 leaders from the public and private sectors and civil society. The objective of these 24 hours behind closed doors is clear: turning ideas into action. This year, participants committed to collective actions dedicated to Ukraine under the initiative “Act for Ukraine.” This initiative aims to:

  • Create a platform for decarbonized reconstruction in Ukraine.
  • Expand the network of French-Ukrainian partner cities.
  • Organize a delegation visit to Ukraine in collaboration with the University of the City of Tomorrow.

A Call for Support
Vadym Omelchenko, Ukraine’s Ambassador to France and guest of honor on the first day, underscored in his speech:
“The embassy, in partnership with its allies, stands ready to support French stakeholders who wish to contribute to Ukraine’s reconstruction.”

Mariupol Reborn: A Call for Collective Action
Vadim Boychenko, Mayor of Mariupol, presented the “Mariupol Reborn” plan with palpable emotion, calling for collective mobilization. This ambitious plan envisions transforming Mariupol into a symbol of Ukraine’s revival through immediate action, a shared co-constructed vision, and long-term development.

With heartfelt determination, Mayor Boychenko invited all participants to join this significant and ambitious project, making it a collective endeavor to showcase the resilience and rebirth of Ukraine.