MMTC Researchers Collaborate to Strengthen Democratic Governance in Ukraine
MMTC researchers at Jönköping International Business School (JIBS) are taking active steps to support Ukraine’s democratization through a new international collaboration aimed at promoting good governance.
From March 19 to 21, MMTC researchers Timur Uman, Yuliya Khvatsik and Olof Brunninge welcomed university representatives from Ukraine and Moldova as part of a project titled Good Governance and Accountability in Public Administration (GAAP). The initiative, funded by the Swedish Institute (SI), seeks to strengthen the implementation of democratic principles and effective public administration in the Sumy region of Ukraine.
“We draw on successful elements of the Swedish model to inspire and support the development of governance mechanisms that are proven to work,” said Timur Uman, Professor of Business Administration at JIBS and one of the project’s key leaders.
The GAAP project is a joint effort involving Jönköping Municipality, MMTC researchers at JIBS, Moldova State University, Sumy State University, and a Ukrainian NGO focused on public sector reform. It is one of 41 initiatives supported under SI’s newly launched Ukraine Cooperation Programme, which aims to build long-term institutional capacity and create networks for knowledge sharing.
During the three-day visit, the delegation engaged in planning sessions, explored the JU campus, and got a taste of Swedish culture and society. The experience fostered both professional and personal connections.
This visit has been enriching—both in terms of project development and cultural exchange,” said Anastasiia Niesheva, Assistant Professor from Sumy State University. “Sharing best practices with our Swedish counterparts is a valuable opportunity.
Her sentiments were echoed by Andrei Mulic, Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Finance and Banking at Moldova State University.
“We’ve had meaningful discussions on effective public administration. Our goal now is to design short, practical training programs for civil servants in our regions,” Mulic added.
The project’s next milestone will be a follow-up meeting hosted in Moldova this May, where the team will continue shaping educational initiatives to advance good governance in Eastern Europe.
