As Europe is facing the fastest growing refugee crisis since World War II, UNHCR welcomes Norway’s strong support and solidarity with people fleeing the hostilities in Ukraine.
A majority of the refugees fleeing Ukraine are women and girls. © Ruth Schöffl
The Norwegian government last week announced contributions of a total of NOK 300 M (USD 33.5 M) to UNHCR and the joint UN refugee response plan in Ukraine and the neighboring countries, who have already received more than 2.8 million refugees.
This important and timely contribution comes in addition to Norway’s already significant flexible funding to UNHCR. In 2021, Norway was the largest contributor of unearmarked funding to UNHCR. The contribution comes at a significant time and allows UNHCR to scale up the response and activities inside Ukraine and for the many refugees, who continue to seek safety in the region.
“The humanitarian situation in Ukraine is very dire, and with the speed and scale of the refugee exodus this has immense impact on the countries, neighboring Ukraine. We are extremely grateful for donors like Norway who reacts promptly and allows us to provide lifesaving assistance to the most vulnerable inside Ukraine and support the national responses in the neighboring countries,” says Henrik M. Nordentoft, UNHCR’s Representative to the Nordic and Baltic Countries.
In only a few weeks, since 24 February, more than 2.8 million people have fled Ukraine, the majority women and children. In addition, it is estimated that some 1.85 million people are internally displaced inside the country. UNHCR is present in Ukraine and in all neighboring countries, and we are working closely with authorities, other UN agencies, and partners, in order to provide emergency relief and cash assistance to the most vulnerable communities.
Last week, a six-truck convoy with UNHCR relief items arrived in Moldova, delivering 250 family tents, 2,500 synthetic sleeping mats, 1,000 plastic tarpaulins as well as for example hygiene items, baby care kits, winter kits and portable LED solar lamps to the authorities. Additional convoys and airlifts are scheduled in the coming days.
The UN estimates that 12 million people inside Ukraine will need relief and protection, while more than 4 million refugees from Ukraine may need protection and assistance in neighboring countries in the coming weeks and months.
Norway as a donor
Norway is one of UNHCR’s top donors. The large contribution of unearmarked support allows UNHCR to respond quickly to humanitarian emergencies around the world, and fund forgotten and protracted refugee situations.
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