Ukraine advances EU bid with first simulation of environment and climate screening

Ukraine has launched its first simulation session of the bilateral screening process for Chapter 27 of the EU acquis on Environment and Climate Change, marking a significant milestone on its path toward European Union membership.

Held in Kyiv’s European Hub – a space established under the auspices of Deputy Prime Minister Olha Stefanishyna – the week-long session brought together Ukrainian government officials and experts, with counterparts from the European Union joining remotely.

Organized with the support of UNDP in Ukraine within the “Climate Promise From Pledge to Impact” project, the session aims to prepare Ukrainian negotiators for the formal bilateral screening meetings scheduled for June 2025 in Brussels. The simulation is designed to closely mirror the agenda and format of the upcoming official talks.

“The European Union is a global leader in climate action and environmental protection,” said Olha Yukhymchuk, Deputy Minister for European Integration at the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources of Ukraine, commenting on the simulation session. “Ukraine’s EU integration is not only a geopolitical priority, but a transformative opportunity to drive environmental reforms and accelerate our climate commitments. Today’s session marks a crucial step in ensuring that our negotiators are fully prepared to engage in this historic process.”

Roman Shakhmatenko, Energy and Environment Portfolio Team Lead at UNDP in Ukraine said UNDP was proud to support Ukraine in aligning its policies with the EU’s environmental and climate standards. “UNDP contributed to the development of Ukraine’s framework law on climate, adopted in October 2024,” Shakhmatenko said.

“Currently, we are supporting the update of Ukraine’s Long-Term Low Emission Development Strategy (LT-LEDS), which will guide the country’s climate policy through the next decades. As well we support the Ministry in developing the Draft Law on Green Recovery that introduces EU’s green taxonomy into the Ukrainian legislation.

“Our role is not only to provide technical expertise but also to help coordinate efforts among government bodies, civil society, and international partners. UNDP remains committed to supporting Ukraine throughout the EU accession process. Together, we are laying the groundwork for a green, inclusive, and resilient future.”

The simulation session underscores the strategic partnership between the Government of Ukraine and UNDP in advancing reforms, supporting climate resilience, and accelerating EU integration. It reflects a broader commitment to ensuring that Ukraine’s post-war recovery is aligned with the EU Green Deal and sustainable development goals.

Media enquiries:

Yuliia Samus, UNDP Ukraine Head of Communications; e-mail: yuliia.samus@undp.org