UNICEF’s assistance to children and families in Ukraine is a ray of hope amid the ongoing escalation of violence and trauma in the country. The organization, present in our country even before the beginning of the conflict, has demonstrated unwavering commitment to ensuring the well-being of war-affected communities.

Lighting the way in dark times: UNICEF’s mission in Ukraine

The activities of UNICEF in Ukraine cover a wide range of humanitarian measures, each of which is aimed at meeting the specific needs of children and families affected by Russian aggression:

1. With the onset of cold weather, UNICEF ensures the functioning of the heating infrastructure and provides children with the necessary winter clothes and blankets to keep them warm.
2. Distribution of educational materials and involvement of children in formal and informal educational activities, so that they can continue their education despite the challenges of hostilities.
3. Providing mental health and psychosocial support services to children and their caregivers, including responding to gender-based violence .
4. Restoring access to safe water in areas with damaged or destroyed networks, as well as providing necessary sanitary and hygienic facilities.
5. Distributing medicines in war-affected areas, ensuring the satisfaction of medical needs even in the midst of a crisis.
6. Providing multipurpose cash assistance to households that enables them to meet their unique needs and priorities in these challenging times.
7. Advocating for humanitarian principles, international humanitarian law and human rights, with an emphasis on preventing serious violations of children’s interests.

In addition, the organization actively advocates at all levels for the cessation of hostilities, emphasizing the need to protect children and their future from the devastating consequences of the Russian invasion. 

Thus, UNICEF’s activities in Ukraine embody the essence of humanitarian aid: not only alleviating immediate suffering, but also nurturing hope, resilience and the ability to recover and grow after our victory. Their work is a testament to the power of unwavering compassion and the profound impact of collective, purposeful efforts to mitigate the horrors of war and lay the foundations for a peaceful future.