The report, which is supported by the Scottish Government, has been authored by four Scottish practices – Collective Architecture, Oberlanders Architects, Reiach + Hall Architects, and Stallan-Brand – following their presence at the ReBuild Ukraine conference in Warsaw in November last year, alongside the RIAS and Ivan McKee MSP, the former minister for Public Finance and currently cabinet secretary for Public Service Reform. 

The research report intends to serve the purpose of a practical briefing document for Scottish architects, practices and allied professionals, who are looking to understand how to responsibly get involved in the rebuilding of Ukraine and support the work of local practices.

The report acknowledges that Ukraine’s built environment has regional diversity alongside a local identity. 

The document examines the country’s reconstruction through the lens of key themes: construction culture; working practices; procurement routes; its regulatory systems and funding structures; professional accreditation; risk; and the role of the global community. 

The report identifies that key engagement opportunities for Scottish practices emerge from understanding local procedural systems, rather than the design intent or ambition. 

It stressed that responsible participation in the reconstruction of Ukraine comes from being up-to-date on Ukraine’s complex, highly regulated and multi-layered legal, regulatory, funding and delivery systems. 

The report also states that the results of reconstruction are at their best when international involvement is carefully tailored to support rather than displace Ukrainian professionals and to prioritise local leadership. 

The document highlights the significance of successfully navigating the accreditation requirements and regulatory systems, alongside making sure that reconstruction work addresses local needs. 

The document also identifies the possibility for reconstruction to deliver progress in improving community-focused planning and social inclusion.

The research and report have been carried out as a collaboration between RIAS and the four practices. 

The insights presented have been accumulated from several sources such as construction specialists from across Ukraine, the UK and international institutions.

Stephen Gethins, minister for Europe, External Affairs and Energy, said: “The Scottish Government is committed to supporting Ukraine’s recovery from the devastation caused by Russia’s illegal invasion as Ukraine defends us all from aggression.

“This research supports the memorandum of understanding between the Scottish Government and the Government of Ukraine, which promotes economic cooperation and development between our countries.”

Gerry Hogan, director at Collective Architecture, said: “We are looking forward to the next stage of the process, building on the work undertaken to date and resolving the technical and procedural challenges of working in Ukraine.”

Catriona Hill, partner at Oberlanders Architects, said: “The collaboration with our Scottish and Ukrainian partners has been invaluable. 

“Their input and guidance has ensured that the report accurately reflects how Scottish architects could play an important role in assisting with the future rebuilding effort.”

James Grimley, director at Reiach + Hall Architects, said: “The technical challenges ahead will be demanding, but they offer an incredible opportunity for Ukraine and Scotland to collaborate and drive meaningful progress.”

Alan Garland, director at Stallan-Brand, said: “This project has demonstrated the value of collaboration across borders, bringing together Scottish and Ukrainian expertise to address complex challenges. 

“Above all, we have been inspired by the resilience and determination of the Ukrainian people. Their unwavering commitment to building a better future is both humbling and hopeful.”

Tamsie Thomson, chief executive officer of the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland, said: “The project not only offers a tangible next step in Scotland’s ongoing support of Ukraine’s reconstruction, but serves to underpin Scotland’s position as a nation that leads with creativity, compassion and vision.”