Ukraine signs Human Capital Resilience Charter at Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome

The Ministry of Economy of Ukraine, the Ministry for Veterans Affairs of Ukraine, the National Bank of Ukraine and representatives of large businesses signed the Human Capital Resilience (HCR) Charter at the Ukraine Recovery Conference 2025, on July 11, in Rome.

On the part of businesses, the Charter was signed by Metinvest Group, PrivatBank, DTEK and Naftogaz of Ukraine. More than 100 other Ukrainian companies are ready to sign the document.

The Charter is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Economy of Ukraine, developed in partnership with the Ministry for Veterans Affairs and the National Bank of Ukraine with support from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), Folke Bernadotte Academy (FBA) and international consulting firm Korn Ferry.

"The Human Capital Resilience Charter is a key step towards rebuilding a strong and inclusive labor market in Ukraine. By focusing on human capital, we aim to create a sustainable economic future that will benefit all Ukrainians," said Yuliia Svyrydenko, Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine and Minister of Economy of Ukraine.

Due to the war, Ukraine's economic output fell by almost a third, and unemployment reached 35% in 2023. Today, this figure has decreased to 12%, but the reintegration of 500,000 veterans, the return of millions of refugees and the employment of more than 6 million IDPs are still ahead. The Charter was created to help businesses meet these challenges and turn human capital into a driving force for recovery.

“The EBRD is committed to supporting Ukraine's recovery through initiatives such as the HCR Charter, which emphasizes the importance of workforce resilience and inclusive growth,” said EBRD President Odile Renaud-Basso.

The document calls on employers in Ukraine to participate in economic recovery by supporting employees, including veterans and displaced workers. It was drafted amidst the war to help businesses set new standards for human resources management - responsible, inclusive, and human-centered.

The purpose of the Charter is to provide businesses with practical tools to preserve and develop human capital: from supporting veterans to developing skills, inclusion and transparency. The signatories undertake to integrate the principles of the Charter into HR strategies, adapt work processes to the needs of employees, harmonize internal policies, and share experiences. The state, for its part, supports these changes, particularly in the area of human resources development and modernization of the working environment.

"Human capital is the foundation and the main driving force for the economic recovery and further development of our country, and the financial sector should play a key role in supporting those who need it most. In particular, the people who are at the frontline today, the people who are near the frontline, and our veterans who are returning to active economic life after their service. That is why the NBU has joined the Charter and, together with the financial sector, is consistently working to expand inclusive access to financial services and creating conditions for the full socio-economic reintegration of female and male veterans," said NBU Governor Andriy Pyshnyy.

The document contains nine basic principles, including responsible leadership, flexibility, support for veterans, continuous training, and partnership with the state. The Charter is aligned with international standards and is part of Ukraine's national security strategy.

The Charter focuses on five main areas: employment of veterans, reintegration of displaced persons, flexible personnel management, promoting diversity and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the workforce.

"For us, signing the Charter is a logical step, as our focus is on putting into practice a personal approach to each employee. It is people who have become the pillar that has helped Metinvest to withstand the most difficult times and continue to work for the recovery and well-being of Ukraine," said Yuriy Ryzhenkov, CEO of Metinvest Group.

The document provides real benefits to the business: it helps to attract and retain strong employees, builds a reputation as a modern and responsible employer open to change. It promotes innovation and adaptability through team development and the introduction of new technologies. Taking care of staff well-being increases motivation and efficiency. In addition, companies get access to useful HR tools, practices and partner support.

"The priority task of the Charter is to create a community that unites business around humanity and care for all categories of employees. Sharing the best practices will help increase the sustainability of Ukrainian companies and improve labor standards," emphasized Roman Bondar, Head of Korn Ferry Ukraine office.

For employees, the Charter will help create fair and safe working conditions. By integrating the principles of the Charter, employers are committed to providing support to staff in difficult life situations, equal access to work, training and career development, opportunities for development and a role in important company decisions.