Ahead of the Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC 2026) in Gdańsk, a Civil Society Forum was convened to discuss the role of the civic sector in Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction.
One of the forum’s co-organizers, prominent Polish publicist and President of the Board of the Stefan Batory Foundation, Edwin Bendyk, spoke with Ukrinform about the forum’s key priorities and what distinguished this year’s gathering. He also shared his views on Polish-Ukrainian relations and possible ways to ease tensions between Kyiv and Warsaw.
CIVIL SOCIETY SHOWS STRONG INTEREST IN UKRAINE’S RECONSTRUCTION
Ukrinform (UI): Mr. Bendyk, the Civil Society Forum has taken place in Gdańsk. What was its main objective?
Edwin Bendyk (EB): Since the launch of the Ukraine Recovery Conference process—this year marking the fifth edition—civil society has sought to demonstrate that it is an indispensable actor not only in resisting Russian aggression but also in rebuilding the country. Civil society organizations possess the expertise, experience, and resources needed to play a full and meaningful role in this effort.
