The Russian war of aggression against Ukraine is an example of a situation where development aid, alongside military support not defined as aid, takes on many roles. In addition to humanitarian aid, during ongoing warfare, development aid has a role in helping to maintain social functions and restore vital infrastructure.

In a future post-conflict situation, there is a shift in role from humanitarian aid to more development aid in order to rebuild what the Russian attack has destroyed. Reconstruction needs go far beyond physical infrastructure. The needs are also far greater than what development aid alone can finance. Although development aid and other public funds will play a major role in the early stages, private capital is necessary for long-term reconstruction.

The report estimates the current cost of the war and presents key lessons from previous international reconstruction efforts. The main emphasis is on the future global support to Ukraine, in terms of content, financing needs and organization, and what this means for Swedish aid.

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