Norway to increase support to refugees in Ukraine and Moldova

The UN estimates that over 6 million Ukrainians have fled the country and some 4 million are internally displaced as a result of Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine. Norway will now provide NOK 170 million to the efforts to assist refugees in Ukraine and Moldova being carried out under the Office of the High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

‘Russia is continuing its brutal war of aggression, and more people are fleeing every day. Without help, Ukrainians will be forced into a life of uncertainly and despair. Norway stands with Ukraine,’ said Mr Støre.

Filippo Grandi has served as the UN High Commissioner for Refugees since 2016. While in Oslo, Mr Grandi is meeting with Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide and Minister of International Development Anne Beathe Tvinnereim. 

‘I have spoken with displaced Ukrainians in Ukraine and in neighbouring countries. The stories they tell about how this war has destroyed communities and torn families apart are extremely distressing. The UN and the High Commissioner play a vital part in helping refugees,’ said Mr Støre.

The UNHCR uses funding from Norway to provide emergency life-saving efforts, and humanitarian aid such as shelter, blankets and clothing, as well as cash assistance to enable the most vulnerable to cover essentials.

‘Russia’s war continues unabated and buildings and other infrastructure must be rebuilt time and time again. The UN’s broad humanitarian efforts also go towards repairing civilian infrastructure. Humanitarian aid and early reconstruction efforts must be coordinated so that Ukrainians will be able to be as self-sufficient as possible, both now and in the future,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

Much of the Norwegian funding to the millions of Ukrainians who have left their homes behind is being provided under the Nansen Support Programme for Ukraine. The Support Programme provides flexible support and allocations can be adjusted as Ukraine’s needs evolve.

‘The additional allocation to the UN Refugee Agency will be used to help the most vulnerable Ukrainians in an uncertain and unpredictable situation. Many have had to flee repeatedly in order to escape the ongoing hostilities that are destroying their homes,’ said Minister of International Development Anne Beathe Tvinnereim.