UNICEF and Local Authorities Partnership in Response to Ukraine Refugee Crisis

The event will present the important work that it being carried out through the key partnerships between UNICEF, the local authorities and youth organizations in the countries responding to the Ukraine humanitarian and refugee crisis.

Since the 24th of February, more than a quarter of Ukraine’s population has been forced to leave their homes: over 6 million refugees – 90 per cent of whom are women and children – have fled to neighbouring countries, with many immediately continuing their onward journey to other countries. The local governments in the refugee hosting countries are making huge efforts to meet the needs of children and their families and caregivers and provide adequate reception and services. UNICEF has a rich and long-term experience in partnering with local authorities in Europe for advancing child rights realization and improving wellbeing of children. The war in Ukraine and the refugee crisis has shown the critical role of local authorities in the crisis response, and the importance of multi-stakeholder partnerships to support the most urgent needs of children, where young people also play a prominent role. Youth organizations like the Scouts are among the first responders on the ground, helping their local authorities to provide services and care for the refugee children and families affected by the devastating war in Ukraine.