“Themes such as anti-corruption, human rights, and the prevention of gender-based sexual violence have rightfully been given a central place in the support for the Ukrainian civil society. This is important, and we expect it to be reflected in budget priorities,” says Lindeman. She looks forward to continued collaboration on how this can be achieved in the most accurate and effective manner.
“Local ownership and collaboration with Ukrainian organizations are crucial for success. In this regard, the Nansen program must ensure that large multinational and international organizations that are managing Norwegian support to Ukraine, are required to engage in local partnerships,” Lindeman continues.
“In the distribution of civil support to Ukraine in 2023, only one percent was allocated to accountability, democracy, and human rights. Going forward, this percentage must be significantly increased to strengthen anti-corruption efforts and support rule of law in Ukraine,” says Lindeman.
The Norwegian Helsinki Committee has worked diligently to document grave human rights violations and war crimes in collaboration with local partners since the outbreak of the war and the annexation of Crimea in 2014. This will be a crucial part of the accountability and prosecution.
” We will now study the report and see how we can participate in a robust and effective program for Ukraine” says Berit Lindeman.