From 24 February 2022, the escalation in hostilities in Ukraine triggered an unprecedented humanitarian crisis across the country, resulting in widespread destruction and displacement. Two years from the full-scale invasion, the war continues to inflict immeasurable human suffering, deaths and destruction, putting millions at risk of serious violations, trigger mandatory evacuations of civilians from frontline communities and generating grave humanitarian needs.

According to sources, an estimated 14.6 million people in Ukraine need humanitarian assistance and 3.6 million people internally displaced, while 6 million Ukrainian refugees across Europe. The impacts of the conflict have resulted in destabilised lives, separated families, and placed an intense strain upon coping mechanisms, national infrastructure, and services. Vulnerable groups are experiencing growing humanitarian needs, with women and girls, older persons and persons with disabilities facing increased access barriers, and ever-increasing risk for survival.

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) and partners are addressing the life-threatening and harmful consequences of the crisis through providing integrated protection, Economic Recovery and Development (ERD) including winterisation and health assistance to people in hard-to-reach areas, focusing on internally displaced persons (IDPs), returnees and most vulnerable local communities. In order to know the pressing needs and expand and address more needs in the country, the IRC carried out multisectoral needs assessment in six oblasts in the east and southern part of the country (Kharkiv, Donetsk [Pokrovsk], Zaporizhzhia, Odesa, Mykolaiv and Kherson) focusing on the locations close to the frontline including urban and rural locations. The assessment aimed to identify unmet humanitarian needs in the assessed locations, prioritise them, and recommend a comprehensive multi-sector response. This approach seeks to be highly effective in supporting IDPs, returnees, and host communities, aiding them in rebuilding their lives and futures.

Available documents & links