Norway increases humanitarian support for civilians in Ukraine

A full year has passed since the war in Ukraine broke out. According to the UN, some 17.6 million people are in need of assistance, and the organisation is seeking over NOK 55 billion in 2023 for humanitarian aid to help those affected.

‘The war is causing more death, suffering and displacement every day. We will continue to provide humanitarian assistance to civilians in Ukraine. Norway is now allocating NOK 400 million in funding to UN efforts to assist the many millions of people in need,’ said Ms Huitfeldt.

The funding is being allocated for efforts under the new UN Humanitarian Response Plan for Ukraine, launched this week to address humanitarian needs and the needs of refugees. According to the UN, approximately 86 % of Ukrainian refugees are women and children. Norway is in a position to provide flexible funding quickly and was therefore able to give an initial pledge of support straight away.

‘It is vital to provide rapid, flexible funding. Norway announced its support on the same day as the UN issued its appeal for 2023. The funding will be used to provide food, health care, cash assistance, protection and other life-saving humanitarian aid. Norway is providing support to meet both the immediate needs of the Ukrainian people and the long-term costs of reconstruction,’ said Ms Huitfeldt.

Since the war started, Norway has provided approximately NOK 2.6 billion for humanitarian efforts. The support is being channelled through the UN, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, and major Norwegian and international humanitarian organisations.

Norway’s humanitarian efforts are based on the humanitarian principles.

‘Russia’s war has far-reaching ramifications. The suffering of civilians is difficult to fathom, and the scale of destruction is enormous. Norway condemns Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine, and supports the Ukrainian people’s legitimate fight to defend themselves,’ said Ms Huitfeldt.

A broad majority in the Storting have reached agreement on a multi-year support programme for Ukraine. The support programme totals NOK 75 billion, with annual disbursements of NOK 15 billion over five years. This will make it possible to maintain a high level of support over time, and will give Norway’s humanitarian partners the flexibility they need to respond in a long-term perspective.

More information about the Nansen Support Programme for Ukraine can be found here: Broad political agreement on multi-year support programme for Ukraine on regjeringen.no