Ukraine marks 100 days of war

During the first 100 days of conflict in Ukraine, the UN Refugee Agency has provided more than one million people with protection services, cash assistance and essential items.

But with millions more displaced from their homes and in need of urgent assistance, Australia for UNHCR National Director, Naomi Steer, says more funding is urgently needed.

“The generosity of Australian donors during this ongoing crisis has been immense, and we thank them for stepping up to assist during such a critical time for the millions of innocent families caught up in this conflict,” Ms Steer said.

“Australia for UNHCR has raised more than $12 million thanks to the generosity of donors.  This is the most money the organisation has raised for an emergency appeal in its 22 year history,” she said.

“However, the reality is that UNHCR is still only 56% funded for this crisis and we need ongoing support to reach the most vulnerable,” she said.

Since the war began on February 24, one third of Ukrainians have been forced from their homes making it the largest human displacement crisis in the world today.

Some eight million people have been displaced internally within Ukraine and 13 million people are estimated to be stranded in affected areas or unable to leave due to heightened security risks, destruction of bridges and roads, as well as lack of resources or information on where to find safety and accommodation.

Almost seven million refugees have fled into neighbouring countries, while it’s estimated some two million have since crossed back into Ukraine.

Since the conflict began:

• 196,769 people have received targeted protection assistance and information at border points, transit, and reception centres and through hotlines
• 362,060 people have enrolled to receive cash assistance and 166,630 people have received their first payments
• 450,025 people have received essential items, clothes, shelter materials and food assistance
• 68,204 people have received assistance through humanitarian convoys delivered to hard-hit areas
• 51,565 sleeping places created/improved in a total of 174 reception and collective centres

“UNHCR is always committed to staying and delivering. The work of the agency’s staff on the ground has been tireless and courageous and we remain determined to reach as many people as possible in the coming months and years,” said Ms Steer. 

While fewer people are now crossing the border than at the beginning of the conflict, those who are arriving often have fewer economic resources and connections than those who fled earlier. They often arrive in a state of distress and anxiety, from areas heavily affected by the fighting.

With more than 90 per cent of the people fleeing Ukraine either women or children, Australia for UNHCR is continuing to raise funds for protection and relief activities such as Blue Dot hubs.

Blue Dots are an integral part of UNHCR’s protection response, providing emergency services for the most vulnerable. The hubs offer a number of critical services, including child protection, children’s play spaces, psychosocial support and legal aid.

Australia for UNHCR media contact:
Lisa Upton: [email protected]
0420 754 441