Serhiy Derkach takes part in Urban Mobility Forum 2026 in Lviv

First Deputy Minister for Recovery, Infrastructure and Transport of Ukraine Serhiy Derkach took part in Urban Mobility Forum 2026 in Lviv, a professional platform bringing together representatives of government, local communities, European institutions, international financial organisations, businesses and the expert community.

Held from 7 to 9 September, this year’s forum focuses on Ukraine’s path towards European integration in urban development, transport and mobility. Discussions cover integration into the European transport system, public transport development, the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T), Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans (SUMPs), the introduction of public service obligations (PSOs), accessibility, digitalisation and investment.

During the forum, Serhiy Derkach joined a discussion on Ukraine’s European path in transport and infrastructure. He emphasised that the transport sector’s European integration required the systematic alignment of Ukrainian rules with EU legislation, covering everything from the organisation of transport services and safety requirements to the principles governing the funding of socially necessary services.

The introduction of public service obligations in passenger transport was discussed separately. This involves moving towards a transparent model under which the state or a local community determines the level of transport services needed by the public, concludes an appropriate contract with an operator and compensates it for the economically justified cost of providing those services.

“Urban public transport should provide people with a reliable, high-quality service. To achieve this, communities need clear rules, long-term planning and financial mechanisms that allow services to be provided wherever they are socially necessary. This is how the PSO model works in the European Union, and introducing it is an important step in the European integration of Ukraine’s transport sector. It allows cities to plan their transport systems years ahead, operators to work under transparent conditions and passengers to receive a stable and accessible service,” Serhiy Derkach said.

Participants also discussed the development of Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans. These plans allow communities to take an integrated approach to the development of public transport, walking and cycling infrastructure, accessibility, road networks and traffic management. SUMPs are also becoming an important tool for preparing high-quality transport projects and attracting European funding.

Another priority is Ukraine’s integration into TEN-T. For Ukraine, this means developing transport infrastructure in line with European standards and strengthening links between Ukrainian cities and regions and the EU transport system. The integration of Ukrainian cities into TEN-T and the introduction of SUMPs were among the principal topics on the forum’s first day.

Participants also emphasised the need to combine regulatory changes with the practical modernisation of urban transport. This includes purchasing modern rolling stock, developing electric transport and digital services, and improving transport safety and accessibility. Cooperation between local communities, international financial organisations and other partners remains an important source of funding for these projects.

Particular attention was given to making public transport accessible. The needs of people with disabilities, veterans, older people, parents with pushchairs and others with limited mobility must be considered when modernising rolling stock and transport infrastructure.

Background

Urban Mobility Forum 2026 is taking place in Lviv from 7 to 9 September. Its programme comprises more than 20 thematic strands, with discussions on European integration, electric transport, public service obligations, investment, digitalisation, road safety, accessibility and transport planning. The forum is organised by CIVINET Ukraine and Lviv City Council.