The USAID initiatives collectively focus on the development and resilience of local governance in Ukraine, addressing challenges posed by decentralization, conflict, and the need for effective citizen engagement. The comprehensive efforts, listed in Table 5 underscore the commitment to fostering accountable, inclusive, and self-reliant local governance systems in Ukraine.

The DOBRE program, initiated in 2016, has played a pivotal role in supporting Consolidated Communities (CCs) in Ukraine amidst decentralization challenges. Over the first six years, DOBRE collaborated closely with 100 CCs, focusing on effective self-governance and citizen participation. In 2022, USAID granted DOBRE a three-year extension and an additional $40 million to aid 60 CCs, 52 of which had prior engagements. The extension aims to assist these communities, especially those affected by war, in various areas such as strategic planning, financial management, service delivery, local economic development, crisis management, and civic engagement.

The DOBRE Consortium, led by Global Communities, incorporates partners like the Ukraine Crisis Media Center, the Jerzy Regulsky Foundation, and the Malopolska School of Public Administration. The program employs a multi-faceted approach, including strategic planning webinars, service delivery improvement plans, effective public administration training, and local economic development initiatives. DOBRE also emphasizes budgeting, financial management, and capacity building while fostering cooperation with external communities. The program actively engages citizens and supports youth initiatives, recognizing the demographic changes caused by the war.

Furthermore, DOBRE's Emergency Response provides material assistance to 67 CCs near combat zones to address immediate needs. The program leverages partnerships to maximize impact, such as the communications strategy by the Ukraine Crisis Media Center, guidance from the Jerzy Regulsky Foundation, and crisis management training from the Malopolska School of Public Administration.

In parallel, the USAID Governance and Local Accountability Activity (HOVERLA) and Democratic Governance East (DG East) contribute to Ukraine's decentralization reforms. HOVERLA, with a budget of $150 million over six years, supports local governance systems and provides emergency assistance to 65 communities affected by Russia's invasion. DG East, an eight-year, $107 million initiative, addresses the divisive impacts of Russia's aggression in Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts, offering capacity-building assistance and emergency support to war-affected communities.

Rada Next Generation (RANG), a five-year, $10 million initiative, focuses on advancing reforms in the Verkhovna Rada. Despite the ongoing conflict, RANG supports the Rada's modernization, enhances public participation in legislative processes, and provides expertise for emergency wartime legislation.