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An international coalition of governments, organisations and research partners has adopted the Gdansk Declaration, which is the next step in supporting Ukraine’s long-term recovery through science, research and innovation
The Gdansk Declaration was signed on 26 June during the first High-level Steering Committee meeting of the International Coalition for Science, Research and Innovation in Ukraine, held alongside the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Gdansk, Poland.
It establishes a shared vision for rebuilding Ukraine’s research and innovation sector while helping to drive the country’s broader social and economic recovery after Russia’s full-scale invasion.
A central ambition of the Gdansk Declaration is to support Ukraine in increasing investment in research and development to 3% of its gross domestic product once the war has ended. This aligns with the European Research Area target and reflects a long-term commitment to making innovation a key driver of sustainable growth.
A framework for recovery
The Gdansk Declaration provides a framework for cooperation among coalition members, focusing on strengthening Ukraine’s research capacity, supporting reforms within the research and innovation system, and leveraging scientific expertise to directly support reconstruction efforts.
The initiative recognises that rebuilding Ukraine extends beyond restoring physical infrastructure. Developing a modern research ecosystem is expected to play a vital role in creating economic opportunities, encouraging technological advancement and supporting evidence-based policymaking.
The declaration also reinforces efforts to integrate Ukraine more closely into the European Research Area, helping Ukrainian researchers and institutions build stronger partnerships with international counterparts.
Communities of interest begin their work
The meeting also marked the official launch of the Coalition’s Communities of Interest, which will focus on practical challenges facing Ukraine’s scientific and research community.
Three groups are already active. One is coordinating donations of research equipment to help replace facilities damaged or destroyed during the war. Another is strengthening connections with Ukraine’s scientific diaspora while promoting greater international collaboration for Ukrainian researchers. The third focuses on applying research and innovation to support local and regional development nationwide.
These communities are intended to encourage collaboration between coalition members and deliver practical support where it is most needed.
Alongside the steering committee meeting, discussions at the Ukraine Recovery Conference addressed issues linked to Ukraine’s reconstruction, including protecting democratic institutions and countering disinformation.
Science and innovation were highlighted as important tools not only for economic recovery but also for strengthening resilience, improving governance and supporting long-term development.
Building on international cooperation
The International Coalition for Science, Research and Innovation in Ukraine was launched in 2025 during the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome. It was established by the European Commission, Ukraine’s Ministry of Education and Science, UNESCO, and Italy’s Ministry of Universities and Research.
Since its creation, the coalition has expanded to include 55 member organisations representing governments, international organisations and non-governmental bodies. It’s a platform for identifying the needs of Ukraine’s research and innovation sector while encouraging greater coordination, collaboration and investment among its members.