HUMANITARIAN CRISIS IN UKRAINE

Prior to the open conflict occurring in Ukraine which started in the early hours of 24 February 2022, the local population was already living in adverse circumstances. Tetiana Stawnychy, President of Caritas Ukraine, says “there were already 2.9 million local people on both sides of the contact line who were in need of humanitarian assistance. Today, that number is increasing exponentially”. The situation has caused a loss of civilian lives, livelihoods, damage to infrastructure, food shortages, and displacement.

According to UNHCR’s latest statement on 28 Feb 2022, 520,000 people have fled Ukraine into neighbouring countries amidst the turmoil, and the numbers are rising drastically.

As the conflict intensifies, there is a pressing need to support the vulnerable and those who have been displaced. People are forced to move, arriving at train stations, bus stations, and administrative hubs in dire need of information and assistance; transportation to friends, family, and safe spaces for shelter and support; food, water, and items to protect from the harsh winter environment. Some also require urgent connections to pharmacies or doctors for medical needs, assistance with legal documents, and psychosocial support.