Key policy developments in education, training and employment - Ukraine 2024

In response to the full-scale Russian invasion on 24 February 2022, Ukraine, just four days later, promptly applied for EU membership. On November 8, 2023, the European Commission issued its 2023 Enlargement Package, recommending the initiation of accession negotiations with Ukraine. Subsequently, on 14 December 2023, the European Council agreed to commence these negotiations. Officially, the accession talks began on 25 June 2024. On 15 April 2024, the European Council positively assessed ’Ukraine’s comprehensive reform and investment strategy, known as the Ukraine Plan. This decision enables regular support from the EU’s up to €50 billion Ukraine Facility. The funding will help Ukraine maintain its administration, pay salaries and pensions, deliver basic services, and support recovery while defending against Russian aggression. Support is contingent on Ukraine implementing the agreed reforms and respecting democratic principles. The European Commission’s assessment confirmed that the Ukraine Plan effectively targets the Facility’s goals, addressing Ukraine’s needs for recovery and modernisation. It outlines 69 reforms and 10 investments across various sectors to boost economic growth, improve governance, and align with EU standards.