About the solidarity partnership with the Ukrainian city of Mykolaiv

The council of the state capital of Hanover had previously unanimously adopted the resolution on this solidarity partnership. 

Initially, the partnership focused on needs-oriented aid deliveries to Mykolaiv in order to alleviate the humanitarian crisis caused by the Russian war of aggression. However, it was important to Hanover's city council from the outset that the measures should not be of a short-term nature, but that a long-term friendly relationship with the city should be established. This is a cooperation between cities with the intention of providing targeted and needs-oriented assistance and support to Mykolaiv, including the restoration of municipal infrastructure and reconstruction. 

Since 2023, the mayor of Mykolaiv, senior managers from the Mykolaiv city council administration, executives from municipal companies as well as business representatives have visited Hanover. They visited the Hannover Messe (trade fair), travelled to receive and return with municipal waste collection vehicles, learned about various aspects of urban planning and water supply, and about municipal and social housing.

This has led to the development of cooperation focusing on support and reconstruction of the city. The main instruments are expert exchanges and consultations as well as support through targeted procurements. 

In addition to improving the living conditions of the people in Mykolaiv, the solidarity partnership also contributes to defending the democratic order in Europe. The mutual exchange, support and cohesion between the two cities are part of solidarity in practice, a contribution to stability and an example of successfully applied city diplomacy in Europe. 

Contact within the state capital of Hannover 

The Bureau for International Affairs within the Office of the Mayor of the City of Hannover is the central point of contact for the implementation of measures and support services as well as the official exchange with Mykolaiv. 

Cooperation partners

Within the frame of the solidarity partnership, the City of Hanover works closely with the municipal enterprises hanova and enercity, the Hanover Chamber of Industry and Commerce, Leibniz Universität Hannover, the State of Lower Saxony and various initiatives and associations from Hanover's civil society, in particular the Ukrainian Association in Lower Saxony and Hanover Helps e.V. 

Would you like to get involved? 

Every commitment and support is welcome in order to fill the solidarity partnership with the city of Mykolaiv with even more life and to develop it further! Support and commitment from many sides are very important - after three years of war, destruction, attrition and emotional strain, it is good to know that people 2,000 km away stand in solidarity by ones’ side. 

Anyone who would like to get involved can contact the Bureau for International Affairs (Mayor's Department). We are happy to network and advise, provide suggestions and information on funding opportunities and needs, etc.