THE ROLE OF INVESTMENT AND CREDIT RESOURCES OF INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTIONS IN OVERCOMING THREATS TO THE ENVIRONMENTAL SECURITY OF UKRAINE

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to substantiate the role of investment and credit resources provided by international financial institutions (IFIs) in overcoming the current threats to Ukraine’s environmental security under conditions of war and post-war recovery. The research is based on an interdisciplinary approach that combines the analysis of environmental safety indicators, assessment of structural environmental risks, and systematization of international financing projects in the fields of ecology. The methodological framework is grounded in the classification of environmental indicators developed by the National Institute for Strategic Studies of Ukraine, which covers seven key groups: biodiversity, air quality, climate, energy, public health, waste management and water resources. The study summarizes more than ten active investment cases implemented by the EBRD, EIB, NEFCO, and KfW during 2022–2024 that have had a direct impact on the state of environmental infrastructure. It has been found that the most substantial positive effect is observed in the areas of water supply, modernization of energy systems, climate adaptation, and access to environmentally safe public services. At the same time, a financing imbalance remains in the areas related to biodiversity protection and municipal waste management, which require urgent attention to ensure holistic ecological sustainability. The practical significance of the obtained results lies in the development of a foundation for integrated environmental policy aimed at mobilizing external financial resources in line with Ukraine’s national environmental safety indicators. Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of strengthening cooperation between Ukrainian authorities and international financial institutions to enhance transparency, efficiency, and targeted use of funds. Future research prospects include the formalization of models for assessing IFI investment impact on regional ecological risk levels, as well as the development of strategic coordination mechanisms with international donors to foster long-term resilience and sustainable recovery.