This project, led by the Council of Europe in partnership with the Ministries of Digital Transformation of Ukraine and Economic Development and Digitalization of Moldova, aims to strengthen responsible AI governance and data protection in these two Member States of the Council of Europe. Through the implementation of the innovative HUDERIA methodology, the initiative supports the development of transparent, ethical, and human rights–based AI systems within Ukraine’s national Sandbox for AI and blockchain startups.

The project represents the first large-scale national application of HUDERIA, transforming international AI governance principles into practical tools for startups, public authorities, and innovation ecosystems. By adapting the methodology to the Ukrainian context, the project will create simplified assessment tools, documentation templates, and an AI-assisted evaluation prototype to help companies and regulators assess risks linked to artificial intelligence systems.

By positioning Ukraine as a pioneering testing ground for trustworthy AI governance, the project highlights the country’s growing role in shaping innovative, human rights–centred artificial intelligence standards across Europe.

At the same time, the initiative strengthens cooperation between Ukraine and Moldova on digital governance and data protection aligned with European standards, including Convention 108+ and the Council of Europe Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence. Moldova’s National Centre for Personal Data Protection is also supported in preparations for the implementation of the country’s new data protection law.

Beyond technical development, the project promotes accountability, transparency, inclusion, and gender-sensitive AI governance. Through training sessions, expert workshops, and international cooperation, it aims to build long-term institutional capacity and establish a replicable European model for responsible digital innovation.