Yulia Svyrydenko takes part in the inaugural meeting of the Civil Protection Shelter Coalition

Prime Minister of Ukraine Yulia Svyrydenko took part in the first inaugural meeting of the Civil Protection Shelter Coalition for Ukraine.

“I am happy to welcome to Kyiv today so many friends of Ukraine who have come to the first inaugural meeting of the Civil Protection Shelter Coalition,” said the Head of Government. "This is a joint initiative of Ukraine and Team Europe to ensure protection for our citizens. Its goal is to create a modern network of civil protection shelters, including in underground schools and kindergartens, hospitals, and public institutions."

Yulia Svyrydenko expressed her gratitude to all the countries that had already announced their new contributions totaling more than EUR 22 million. Of this amount, EUR 11 million was contributed by Finland, which is the leader of the coalition thanks to its unique 80 years of experience in creating a system of bomb shelters. In addition, Sweden has contributed EUR 7 million, Lithuania and Belgium EUR 2 million each, and Ireland EUR 0.5 million. Switzerland also intends to join the initiative.

As of today, more than 42 underground schools have already been built in the frontline regions alone, funded by the state budget and previous contributions from partners.

"During my regional trips, I see how important it is to provide shelter for the uninterrupted continuation of normal life, socialization, and education for children, as well as access to services even amidst russian shelling. The enemy has been shelling all regions of our country, so we continue to build multifunctional spaces in shelters throughout Ukraine," the Prime Minister said.