OECD DevTalks: The Transformation and Reconstruction of Ukraine

The war in Ukraine, caused by Russia’s invasion, remains a profound humanitarian crisis with far-reaching economic and social consequences worldwide. In response, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has strongly condemned Russia’s actions. Moreover, it is now advancing a new strategy to strengthen Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction efforts.

The OECD’s work builds on a Memorandum of Understanding first signed with Ukraine in 2014 and renewed in 2021. Since then, the organisation has deepened its collaboration with Ukrainian partners to rebuild the nation’s economy and institutions. In addition, the OECD Development Centre plays a crucial role by providing policy expertise and data-driven analysis. It supports multiple sectors, including governance, innovation, and sustainable growth. As a result, these coordinated efforts aim to help Ukraine achieve long-term stability and resilience.

Webinar on Ukraine’s Economic and Social Transformation

On Tuesday, 17 May 2022, the OECD DevTalks series hosted a high-level webinar focusing on Ukraine’s economic and social transformation, both before and after the full-scale invasion. The event gathered leading economists, policymakers, and development experts to discuss:

  • The state of Ukraine’s economy prior to 2022
  • The impact of the war on social and economic structures
  • Priorities for reconstruction and recovery
  • The role of international support and cooperation

This discussion contributed to shaping a shared vision for Ukraine’s future, highlighting the resilience of its people and institutions amid ongoing challenges.

Distinguished Speakers

  • Mathias Cormann, Secretary-General, OECD
  • Vadym Omelchenko, Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Ukraine to France
  • Yuriy Gorodnichenko, Quantedge Presidential Professor of Economics, University of California, Berkeley
  • Nataliia Shapoval, Head of KSE Institute & Vice President for Policy Research, Kyiv School of Economics
  • Tymofii Brik, Acting Wartime Vice-President of International Affairs & Head of Sociological Research, Kyiv School of Economics
  • Torbjörn Becker, Director, Stockholm Institute of Transition Economics (SITE), Stockholm School of Economics
  • William Tompson, Head of Eurasia, Global Relations and Co-operation, OECD
  • Ragnheidur Elín Árnadóttir, Director, OECD Development Centre

About OECD DevTalks

OECD DevTalks is a continuing series of expert panel discussions and blogs organized by the OECD Development Centre. Each session brings together global thought leaders to exchange ideas on sustainable development, inclusive growth, and policy innovation.  For more #DevTalks – a series of online panel discussions, along with Development Matters blogs, follow the OECD #DevTalk page.

Disclaimer: Opinions expressed during events and conferences are those of the authors; they do not necessarily reflect those of the FREE Network and its research institutes.