As of December 2024, Ukraine had registered 1.2 million veterans. Upon discharge, veterans face the challenge of reintegrating into civilian life, including securing employment or returning to their previous professions. Veterans with backgrounds in the cultural and academic sectors often encounter unique difficulties when returning to their careers while transforming their military experience into a professional advantage. 

There is an urgent need to develop comprehensive programmes that not only address veterans' professional reintegration but also enhance their employability. Such initiatives should consider the cultural and economic contexts of each region, providing psychological support, vocational training, and facilitating connections with potential employers.

Objectives

The INDEX Veteran Fellowship aims to enhance the professional reintegration of veterans by developing their skills and increasing their employability within the cultural and creative industries. The programme will support veterans in building professional networks, gaining mentorship from established cultural figures, and creating tangible cultural products. 

Outcomes

INDEX plans to host and train three Veteran Fellows: the first Fellow during the pilot season (September–November 2025, funded by INDEX), the second Fellow in January–March 2026, and the third Fellow October–December 2026. All of them will produce and present at least one cultural product created during the fellowship. In addition, three more veterans will be selected via an open call for participation in the INDEX Nonfiction Writing School in October 2026.