Within the framework of the Carpathian Convention, the Working Group on Sustainable Forest Management held the meeting in Bratislava, Slovak Republic, on 28-29 April 2025.

The Ukrainian delegation of forestry experts briefed fellow participants on present challenges and transition processes faced by Ukraine's forestry sector within the context of Russia’s full-scale evasion of Ukraine.

Ukrainian experts emphasized that over 30% of Ukrainian forests were affected by the conflict. A significant part of the forested areas are placed in occupied or war-zone territories. Numerous ecosystems have been destroyed or polluted with forests mined, which poses a constant threat to humans and nature.

Despite the challenges, Ukrainian foresters continue to work: they carry out reforestation, eliminate the consequences of fires caused by shelling and record the damage caused to the forest areas. They are focused also on reforming forest management which includes banning clear-cutting in the Carpathians and transitioning to forest management close to nature.

Ms Mariana Ostrovska, Head of the International Relations, Science and Public Relations Unit of the State Forest Resources Agency of Ukraine, in her speech appreciated the support that the parties to the Carpathian Convention and the FOREST EUROPE process and the European Union member-countries have provided to Ukrainian foresters.

The meeting participants observed a minute of silence in memory of Ukrainian defenders and civilians who became victims of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine.