Coastal Regions of Ukraine: Governance Transformation amid the Russian Invasion

Abstract

The current situation in Ukrainian coastal regions highlights the need for interaction between different types of transport to secure import and export demands. This is especially topical due to the risks presented by the Russo-Ukrainian armed conflict and the prospects of the future reconstruction of Ukraine. The current policy documents of long-term planning in the maritime sphere require a greater focus on the interests and needs of coastal regions. There should be specific norms for the synergy of the sea and inland water transport and different types of land transport within maritime regions. Building a comprehensive approach to foster the development of coastal regions necessitates the harmonization of varying program documents. The experience of marine and inland water transport during wartime, the shift of shipping from seaports to ports combining sea and river directions which occurred over five months during 2022, and the renewal of regional transport cooperation indicate the formation of a new integrated approach to coastal regions; one which demands updated regulation and long-term strategic planning