Voice of Ukraine’s Frontline Communities Grows Stronger: Ihor Terekhov Outlines AFCCU Priorities for 2026

Launched in 2025 to unite Ukraine’s frontline regions, the Association of Frontline Cities and Communities (AFCCU) has rapidly evolved from fragmented local voices into a strong and coordinated force. Today, the Association represents more than 300 municipalities across the Kharkiv, Sumy, Chernihiv, Zaporizhzhia, Dnipropetrovsk, Poltava, Kherson, Mykolaiv, Donetsk and Odesa regions, providing a common platform for advocacy, recovery and development.

Addressing colleagues and government representatives at the forum “Resilience, Recovery, Development: Frontline Communities’ Vision for 2026,” AFCCU head and Mayor of Kharkiv Ihor Terekhov outlined the strategic priorities for Ukraine’s frontline municipalities in the year ahead.

“This forum brings together leaders who understand the meaning of responsibility and the reality of working under constant pressure — from security risks and complex decision-making to the expectations of their communities. Yet citizens are not asking for anything extraordinary. They want light and heat in their homes, functioning hospitals, education for their children, jobs and a sense of confidence in the future. These are simple, fundamental needs that sustain life in our communities and in our country. This is exactly why we have united,” Terekhov said.

He stressed that achieving these goals requires coordinated and constructive cooperation.

“This represents one strong, united voice articulating a shared position and shaping a common vision for the future. Our voice is being heard and reflected in decision-making. We engage with the government through solutions and constructive proposals,” he added.

Terekhov identified the key strategic priorities that will form the foundation of the Association’s work in 2026:

Security: Protecting schools, hospitals and critical infrastructure as the foundation of community life.
Education: Construction of underground schools and support for teachers to safeguard the next generation.
Economy: A firm “NO” to new taxes on small businesses in frontline communities.
Housing: Launching new housing programmes and starting reconstruction now, without waiting for the war to end.
Healthcare: Expanding quality rehabilitation and health support for residents.
Social protection: Strengthening support for internally displaced persons, veterans and families with children.

“2026 has started under exceptionally difficult conditions. We remain in emergency response mode — addressing the impact of continued attacks while building the foundations for sustainable recovery. I am grateful to each of you for your professionalism and mutual support. This is where our real strength lies,” Terekhov concluded.