As Ukraine strives for European Union membership and works to strengthen democracy amidst ongoing war, its political leaders and civic groups face both unprecedented opportunities and formidable challenges. To support this critical moment in the country’s history, the National Democratic Institute (NDI), in partnership with USAID, has launched the School of Political Dialogue and Policy Making — a transformative year-long program designed to equip Ukraine’s leaders with the tools to craft policies that meet citizen needs, foster trust and strengthen democratic governance. 

The School will provide political party leaders with essential skills for effective policy development and implementation, and guidance on organizing the analytical work of departments within political parties. The first session of the School took place from November 14-17, 2024 and brought together 23 participants from the Kyiv region, including not only party leaders but also representatives of political parties, local governments and leading think tanks. The first session served as an overview, setting the framework and encouraging participants to adopt a more systematic approach to policy-making within political parties. Regardless of whether a party is in power or in opposition, the focus was on fostering inclusive, data-driven policy-making practices. Participants discussed ways to build public trust in Ukraine’s institutions — at a time when they are under attack by Kremlin malign narratives — by improving information sharing, transparency, and cooperation among political parties, local governments and research organizations.

This first session primarily focused on developing policies to respond to citizen needs and reflect public priorities. Experts presented examples of both successful and ineffective policymaking, enabling participants to apply these lessons to their policy development strategies. A major goal was to help policymakers focus on decisions that address Ukraine’s long-term priorities instead of short-sighted solutions that, while popular, are less likely to produce effective change. 

Participants also learned about emerging technologies that can improve policymaking. For example, use of artificial intelligence (AI) to predict voter trends or personalize voter outreach messages can help leaders to focus on the issues that matter most to citizens.

Oleksandr Saienko, a former Minister of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine, tasked with overseeing high priority reforms and organizing the work of the Cabinet of Ministers, delivered a talk on understanding the difference between political maneuvering and genuine policymaking. He walked participants through each step of the policy development cycle, showing how thoughtful, research-led planning can give leaders a strategic advantage and create policies that benefit communities over the long term. This was strengthened through a session on developing public opinion research. Under the guidance of an NDI expert, participants practiced designing surveys, interpreting poll results and using this data to craft responsive policies because listening to the public is not just good practice — it is an essential part of building trust and ensuring that policies address real-life concerns.

Another key session, led by former Foreign Minister Vadym Prystaiko, focused on what future EU and NATO membership might mean for Ukraine. A simulation of a NATO Council meeting helped participants gain insights into international decision-making and the complexities of integrating into global institutions. This hands-on experience helped participants understand how foreign policy choices could shape Ukraine’s economy, security and society.

"During the School, I found answers to many of my questions, particularly the most critical one: how to foster dialogue across parties through constructive discussions. This is crucial for building inter-party dialogue." 

Participant in NDI School of Political Dialogue and Policy Making 

The School will continue with follow-up events planned for 2025 designed to sustain engagement and enhance Ukraine’s policymaking capacity. Based on insights from participants and trainers in the first session, NDI has identified priority topics, including practical skills in policy document development, sociological data analysis, the use of advanced technology and tools, and effective communication and advocacy in public policy. Upcoming activities include a January workshop on analytics and sociological data analysis, followed by a February session on advanced generative AI applications for policy development and communication.

Through fostering collaboration, emphasizing evidence-based decision-making, and providing continuous learning opportunities, NDI is empowering a new generation of Ukrainian leaders to shape a resilient democracy, not only to withstand the trials of war but also to sustain stable institutions, foster inter-party dialogue and remain deeply attuned to the priorities and needs of its people. 

NDI's engagement with this program is implemented with support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) through the Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening (CEPPS).

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NDI is a non-profit, non-partisan, non-governmental organization that works in partnership around the world to strengthen and safeguard democratic institutions, processes, norms and values to secure a better quality of life for all. NDI envisions a world where democracy and freedom prevail, with dignity for all.