Civil society's role is pivotal as it steps in to fill governance and resource gaps left by strained public systems, especially in war-affected areas like Dnipropetrovsk and Kharkiv. Such collaborations not only support immediate community needs but also build longer-term democratic resilience, illustrating a practical model of decentralized governance aligned with European democratic values.
Moreover, the project places a special emphasis on gender equality by addressing the underrepresentation of women and LGBTQ+ communities in governance roles. Despite women leading nearly half of new civil organizations in Dnipro, they remain significantly underrepresented in political leadership positions. This project seeks to empower these groups through targeted initiatives such as educational e-courses and mentorship programs tailored for women and LGBTQ+ individuals. These initiatives aim to enhance their leadership capabilities and increase their participation in civic and governance processes, ultimately fostering a more inclusive and equitable democratic system.
Target groups & stakeholders
STREAM-U targets several key groups within Ukraine, addressing their specific needs through a variety of activities. These target groups include:
Local Government Bodies and Civil Society Organizations: The project identifies a gap in the interaction and efficiency between local governments and civil organizations. By fostering collaborative governance, the project seeks to create joint platforms and databases that enable a more coordinated and effective approach to addressing the diverse and growing needs of local communities, especially in conflict-affected areas like Dnipropetrovsk and Kharkiv.
Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs): These groups, significantly affected by the ongoing conflict, have urgent needs for comprehensive state support ranging from psychological aid to rehabilitation and legal assistance. The project aims to address these needs through enhanced local governance and the implementation of collaborative frameworks between civil society and government entities to improve the effectiveness and responsiveness of public services.
Women and LGBTQ+ Communities: Focusing on gender equality and social inclusion, the project recognizes the underrepresentation of these groups in governance and decision-making roles. Activities such as educational e-courses and mentorship programs are designed to empower these individuals by providing them with the skills and opportunities to engage in civic activities and leadership roles.
General Citizenry: The broader population faces challenges related to the quality and accessibility of public services, exacerbated by the war. The project addresses these challenges by implementing citizen-centric digital governance solutions that aim to enhance public service delivery, making it more equitable and responsive to the varied demographic needs across different regions.
