NGO “Nova Energia”, UNP WG3 member, launched the initiative “EU-Ukraine Strategic Partnership in the Critical Raw Minerals Sector: Analysis of Risks and Benefits “ within the project “Supporting the activities of the UNP EaP CSF 2021-2023”, which is implemented by the Institute for Economic Research and Policy Consulting with the financial support of the European Union.
Name of the initiative: EU-Ukraine Strategic Partnership in the Critical Raw Minerals Sector: Analysis of Risks and Benefits
Organisations: NGO “Nova Energia”, UNP WG3 members
Duration: 23 May 2023 – 22 September 2023
The objective of the initiative “EU-Ukraine Strategic Partnership in the Critical Raw Materials Sector: Analysis of Risks and Benefits ” is to raise awareness on the risks and benefits of the implementation of the EU-Ukraine strategic partnership in the raw materials sector through an expert discussion between civil society institutions, academics and government officials.
The launch of a strategic partnership between Ukraine and the European Union (EU) in the raw materials sector is an important step towards the development of a green economy, creating new business opportunities and jobs. Ukraine has a huge potential in the field of critical raw materials, especially in the context of decarbonisation. The initiative aims to explore opportunities for cooperation with the EU in this area, taking into account the risks associated with Ukraine’s transformation into a raw material supplier to the EU economy, the need to replace russian raw materials, reduce dependence on the Chinese suppliers and ensure a green transition.
However, there are important issues that require attention, such as environmental threats and the quality of life of the Ukrainian population, It is also necessary to address the corruption risks traditionally associated with extractive industries. Ukraine is committed to implementing the international EITI standard to ensure transparency in the extractive industries, but the extraction of critical raw materials is not yet included in this standard, although it may become a priority in connection with the energy transition.
In the context of russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine and the imposition of martial law, equal and competitive access to the extraction of deposits in compliance with environmental requirements and using the best technologies is an integral part of the initiative. The Government of Ukraine has also approved a list of subsoil areas of strategic importance for the sustainable development of the economy and the country’s defence capability, and provides for tenders for production sharing agreements. Given the negative experience of restricting citizens’ rights in such agreements, it is important to study this issue.
As part of the Initiative:
Based on the results of the analysis and public discussion, experts will develop framework recommendations on ways to minimize risks at all stages of the decision-making chain for the development of critical raw materials deposits in Ukraine. The recommendations will be disseminated among WG3 member organisations and other EaP CSF working groups.
Follow the Initiative’s news: https://www.facebook.com/NOVA.ENERGIYA
The Initiative is implemented within the project “Supporting the activities of the UNP EaP CSF 2021-2023” funded by the European Union, the Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum and implemented by the Institute for Economic Research and Policy Consulting.
