The United Nations wants to raise $4.2 billion for Ukrainians in 2024
A refugee from Ukraine waits at the Siret border crossing between Romania and Ukraine, February 28, 2022. CHLOE SHARROCK/ MYOP POUR “LE MONDE”
The United Nations said Monday it needs $4.2 billion in humanitarian aid in 2024 for Ukraine and the millions of refugees who have fled the country since Russia's invasion nearly two years ago.
“The latest wave of attacks is a reminder of the devastating cost of this war on civilians, at a time when a harsh winter increases the urgent need for life-saving humanitarian assistance,” the UN said. According to the organization, 14.6 million people in Ukraine will need humanitarian assistance this year, representing 40% of the population, with 8.5 million to be reached as a priority.
The appeal for donations for Ukraine amounts to 3.1 billion dollars. For 2023 it was $3.9 billion, but only 64% was funded. Therefore, the United Nations decided to revise it downwards this year and focus on the most urgent needs.
“Hundreds of thousands of children live in frontline communities, frightened, traumatized and deprived of essentials,” Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths said in a press release. “This simple fact should compel us to do everything we can to bring more humanitarian aid to Ukraine. Homes, schools and hospitals as well as water, gas and electricity networks are regularly attacked. It is the fabric of society that is under attack, with devastating consequences. »
Regarding refugees, Mr Griffiths and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Filippo Grandi, presented their response plan at a joint press conference at the United Nations Office in Geneva at the Palais des Nations. Around 6.3 million people have fled Ukraine and are living on the run, mainly in Europe. This plan is expected to raise $1.1 billion to help 2.3 million of them and their host communities.
According to the United Nations, only half of Ukrainian school-age refugee children receive an education in their host countries, and a quarter of refugees face difficulty accessing health care. Only 40 to 60% of them found jobs, often below their qualifications.