Retired Canadian Vice Admiral Urges Ukraine to Give Veterans a Central Role in Reconstruction

Ukraine’s shared wartime experience may reshape how veterans return to civilian life and help rebuild the country after the fighting ends. Ukraine’s resilience in the war against Russian aggression rests on the unity of society as a whole. Not only military personnel but also civilians are involved in the resistance, supporting the country’s defense every day. Retired Vice-Admiral Mark Norman, former Deputy Commander of the Canadian Armed Forces, emphasized this in an interview. Social unity as the foundation of Ukraine’s resilience: According to Norman, the shared experience of war could become an important advantage for Ukraine in future reintegration of its defenders. He noted that in many countries, veterans returning to civilian life have faced a sense of separation from society. The retired vice-admiral believes that the experience of mutual support during the war can make it easier for service members to return to peaceful life. At the same time, reintegration should not be limited solely to veterans’ adjustment after service. Norman argues that former military personnel should be involved in rebuilding Ukraine. Their contribution to postwar reconstruction should be no less significant than their role in defending Ukraine. Former military personnel should not simply return to their previous lives; they should be given a role in rebuilding Ukraine that is just as important as the role they played in defending it. Norman further emphasized that after hostilities end, Ukraine will need to revitalize its economy and preserve social cohesion. The energy citizens directed toward defending the state must be channeled into rebuilding the country. Canada has expressed its readiness to work with Ukraine on establishing a Veterans Support Fund, which could help defenders return to civilian life and participate in Ukraine’s recovery.