"Reconstruction does not begin with the last shot fired, but with planning, preparation, partnerships."

After almost a year, I can say that the will to support Ukraine in the long term remains unbroken, both nationally and internationally. At the same time, with each passing month, it becomes clearer how complex and multifaceted this task is. Here, we are not talking about traditional development aid, but one of the largest reconstruction projects of our time, which is taking place amid ongoing war.

What particularly impresses me is the enormous resilience and willingness to reform shown by our Ukrainian partners. Despite daily attacks, massive destruction, and enormous strain, the Ukrainian administration is working with great professionalism on structural reforms, transparency mechanisms, and investment projects. This is anything but a given.

At the same time, it shows how crucial coordination is. The better we coordinate our measures internationally, the greater the impact. Overall, I see strong momentum, a great deal of commitment, and an increasing realization that sustainable reconstruction can only be achieved together.

International exchange is a central part of my work. No country can manage reconstruction on its own – and no country has all the necessary expertise.

Broad cooperation is particularly useful in long-term infrastructure planning, innovative financing models, and public-private partnerships. At the same time, Europe has unique experience in building institutions, administrative modernization, regional development, and the implementation of large-scale transformation projects.

Austria also contributes particular economic strengths: in the construction and infrastructure industry, in energy technology, in environmental technologies, in railway and tunnel construction, in water management, and in industrial modernization. Austrian companies enjoy a high level of trust in Ukraine – not least because of their long-standing presence, their technological expertise, and their reliability.

However, the greatest leverage clearly lies in even closer European coordination: fewer parallel structures, a clearer division of labor, and common standards. The reconstruction of Ukraine requires a genuine team approach – conceived in the European spirit and implemented internationally.

There is currently an acute need for action in three key areas: energy, housing, and critical infrastructure.

The systematic attacks on the energy supply show how vulnerable central networks are. Short-term repairs are needed here, but in the long term, structural modernization, decentralization, and renewable energy expansion are also required.

At the same time, housing is one of the most pressing social issues. Millions of people have been displaced and entire neighborhoods destroyed. Without affordable, safe housing, there can be no return, no stabilization, and no economic recovery.

Finally, reconstruction affects transport routes, bridges, water and sewage systems, hospitals, and schools. This infrastructure forms the backbone of every economy. Its restoration is a prerequisite for investment, employment, and social normalization.

Exactly because the war is still ongoing, early engagement is crucial. Reconstruction does not begin with the last shot fired, but with planning, preparation, partnerships, and trust-building – international competition is already taking place.

Companies that get involved now can build local networks, understand regulatory frameworks, and help shape specific projects. They are not only investing in future markets, but also making an active contribution to stabilizing the country.

In addition, many projects are already emerging today – in the energy sector, logistics, healthcare, and digital administration. Those who get involved now will position themselves as reliable partners in the long term and play an active role in shaping the reconstruction process. Because as soon as a ceasefire is in place, things will move forward very quickly.

Corruption is a real challenge – no one disputes that. At the same time, it would be wrong to reduce Ukraine to this issue alone.

The progress made in recent years has been remarkable. Specialized anti-corruption authorities have been set up, transparency platforms introduced, and procurement procedures digitized. International partners are closely involved, control mechanisms have been massively strengthened, and, above all, the younger generation is driving change in this area.

My experience shows that the momentum for reform is genuine. Today, political and social pressure to combat corruption in Ukraine is greater than ever before. The EU accession process in particular is acting as a powerful driver of reform.

For investors, this means that risks must be assessed realistically and managed professionally – but they are much more controllable today than they were a few years ago.    

The mood today is undoubtedly more serious, and often more exhausted. The winter was marked by massive attacks on the energy infrastructure, cold, darkness, and constant uncertainty. Many people have been living in a state of emergency for months.

And yet, what impresses me deeply is the unbroken strength of Ukrainian society. The will to carry on, not to give up, not to resign oneself to defeat, is palpable everywhere and continues unabated. Today, the spirit of optimism is fueled by determination and a remarkable confidence in the future. This also highlights the importance of our commitment to accompany Ukraine on its path to a European future.

The spirit of optimism may have changed – it has become quieter, less euphoric, but at the same time deeper and more mature. Today, it is fueled by determination, responsibility, and a remarkable confidence in the future.

There is enormous strength precisely in this quiet confidence. It reminds us why our commitment is so important – and why we must resolutely accompany Ukraine on its path to a peaceful, European future.