Children are at risk
Children and young people under the age of 18 constitute 18% of the population in Ukraine, totaling 7.9 million. Since the war started in February 2022, millions of children have endured months of devastation and displacement. Under these immensely stressful conditions, it is difficult to have exact numbers, but it estimated that over 1.5 million children are internally displaced and 3,100 children have lost parental care. In addition, 3.4 million children from Ukraine need special protection and assistance
17.6M
People are in need of urgent humanitarian assistance
Forced from home
According to the United Nations, it is estimated that around 17.6 million people are in urgent need of humanitarian support. Around 23% of those in need of support are children.
Nearly two-thirds of children have had to flee their homes. Children who have been displaced are at an increased risk of poverty, malnutrition, abuse, neglect, separation from their families, violence, and trafficking. In the long-term, psychological distress and missed education threaten their future well-being and prospects.
5.7M
Children have had their education disrupted
Disrupted education
Over 3,000 education facilities, have suffered bombing and shelling, or have been completely destroyed. As a result, 2.6 million students are unable to go to school. Many schools are trying their very best to continue their teaching online. However, online learning is jeopardized by power blackouts and a lack of internet.
Schools face the loss of teaching and technical material such as books and projectors. Unable to study, children face the long-term consequences of falling behind in their education, and social development.
1.5 M
Children need mental health support
Health
Life for the children in Ukraine has changed drastically since the war started. Most of those who have had to leave their homes behind are women and children. The majority of families have been separated.
Children have had to leave behind the family, school, friends and life that they knew. They have had to adjust to a new, unpredictable situation that is full of insecurity.
These children need specialized assistance so that they can begin to overcome all the difficulties they face.
Together we can make a difference for children in Ukraine
30,000
Adults and children
Were evacuated to safety within Ukraine
17,000
Mental health consultations
Were possible in Ukraine and neighouring countries
Brought to safety outside Ukraine
When the war escalated in February 2022, SOS Children’s Villages Ukraine quickly adapted its activities to the changing needs of children affected by the conflict. Our support focuses on children and young people. Here are two young children, in safety and able to draw together in the social center in Lviv (photo: S.Skjefstad).
Let’s keep on protecting children and young people!
Many children have been able to find a safe and secure home. With your help, we can continue to change their lives