2 years later: the war in Ukraine

Today, February 24, marks 2 years since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Millions of people have been forced to uproot their lives and vital infrastructure has been destroyed. Oxfam and our partners have been able to reach over 2 million people with life-saving support.  

The price of war has been high. At least 10 000 civilians are estimated to have been killed since 2022, but the real figure is likely to be higher than that. 6.2 million are estimated to have fled Ukraine and 5.8 million of these are within Europe. As in other conflicts, already marginalized groups are particularly vulnerable, Oxfam has been working with partners inside Ukraine as well as in the surrounding area to provide support.  

Among those whose lives were changed by the war are Anastasia and her family. She, her husband and their five children wanted to stay in their home near Odessa for as long as possible, but eventually chose to leave the country. Since July 2023, they have been living in a refugee shelter in Moldova, slowly adjusting to their new lives. The effects of the war have been deeply felt, and their children still get scared every time a plane flies by.  

"It feels so strange to no longer hear the sound of the bombs and air raid sirens."

Anastasia, refugee from Ukraine

At the shelter, Anastasia and her family are given shelter and support to integrate into Moldova by Oxfam's partner organization Amici dei Bambini.  

Oxfam's work

The humanitarian needs of the Ukrainian people remain high, but over the past years we have been able to address the needs of millions of people. We have ensured access to basic water and sanitation services, psychosocial support, cash assistance and we have built 44 water tanks with a capacity of 95,000 liters. We have partnered with women's rights organizations, LGBTI+ organizations and Roma led organizations in Poland, Romania and Moldova.

"It is important to give people a platform. Not only to tell their stories as victims but also as survivors. It is important to create that confidence, to not only look back but also to look forward."

Cecylia Jakubczak, Head of Communications, Towards Dialogue (Oxfam partner)

The year in figures

- 1.3 million people have gained access to basic water and sanitation services. 

- 62 000 people have received psychosocial support.  

- 35,000 people have received cash benefits. 

- 10,000 people have received support for the winter months. 

- 44 water tanks with a capacity of 95,000 liters have been built.  

The work is not over and Oxfam and our partners will continue to support those affected by the war.