Region Gotland – Berislav, Ukraine

Growing Together for Resilient Futures

The partnership between Gotland and Berislav is rooted in deep historical ties, with approximately 10% of Gotland’s population having Ukrainian heritage. This longstanding connection forms a natural foundation for the current collaboration, which is driven by a mutual ambition to foster democratic resilience and prepare for long-term societal development despite very different local circumstances.

In Gotland, the project tackles the demographic challenge of youth migration—many young people leave the island for studies and do not return, threatening the vitality of the community. In contrast, Berislav is situated on the frontline of the war in Ukraine, with only 5% of its original population remaining. Despite these extreme conditions, both municipalities are working to build sustainable, inclusive communities. The overarching goal, “Growing Together for a Resilient Future,” encapsulates this shared commitment.

One of the partnership’s central components is youth engagement. A survey developed during a student visit from Berislav to Gotland gathered perspectives from residents who remained, displaced youth, and older citizens. The results are being used to inform the reconstruction plan of Berislav, and the survey will be adapted for Gotland’s Roma district, which faces similar challenges in youth retention. The goal is to create a foundation for local democracy that empowers young people and promotes repopulation and resilience in both communities.

The partnership also emphasizes institutional development in Berislav, helping to strengthen democratic governance and meet EU requirements in areas like transparency and administrative capacity. There is a clear focus on SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 5 (Gender Equality), particularly through efforts to promote female leadership in local government, education, and the workforce.

The collaboration is characterized by a multi-level approach. In addition to municipal actors, NGOs play an important role, drawing on experiences from cultural heritage programs to support inclusive reconstruction. During Almedalsveckan, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between Berislav and Visby, underlining the formal commitment to long-term cooperation.

Practical results include donation-driven emergency vehicles for Berislav, children’s visits to Gotland, and knowledge exchange activities. One of the main achievements so far has been the successful implementation of a comprehensive survey in wartime. The partnership is also working to establish sustainable communication systems, such as a community database not reliant on individual staff members, and to integrate displaced youth in future planning.

Ultimately, this partnership is a clear example of how cross-border interregional collaboration, even in the most difficult of circumstances, can pave the way for democratic resilience and structural change.

The partnership is part of the ICLD Network for Democratic Resilience.