Kyiv, Ukraine, 14 December 2023 — Today, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) releases its annual Emergency Watchlist of the countries most at risk of intensifying humanitarian emergency in 2024. Ukraine remains among the 20 Watchlist countries, which collectively account for about 10% of the world’s population, but approximately 86% of global humanitarian need. After nearly a decade of conflict in Ukraine, and two years since the Russian Federation’s full-scale invasion, intense fighting in the east and south of the country continues to inflict civilian harm.
Bob Kitchen, IRC’s Vice President for the Emergencies, concludes his visit to Ukraine today, speaking to the continued urgent humanitarian needs:
“My recent visit to Ukraine has confirmed that humanitarian needs are just as dire as they were last year, and they are here to stay for a long time. The situation is critical in the areas close to the frontline that are under constant attack, in locations recently retaken by the Government of Ukraine, and in places where people have fled to seek safety.
“From Kyiv to Kherson, all the way to Kharkiv, I witnessed the intensity of attacks on critical infrastructure intensify as severe winter approaches. The lack of heating and electricity is driving up humanitarian needs. I saw vast areas in the east that remain heavily mined and will take immense resources to clear. The inability to safely access territories under the temporary control of the Russian Federation leaves over 5.4 million civilians cut off from essential services.
“The profound toll of escalating hostilities on people's mental health is evident in alarming statistics, including a surge in domestic intimate partner violence. Approximately one-third of the population may now grapple with mental health issues, suffering from conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder. Our clients are reporting an increase in violence in homes as their partners return home from the frontlines having experienced the traumatic events of war and lacking the necessary psychological support. We must join hands throughout the humanitarian effort to expand access to appropriate mental health services for all.
“Crucially, the commitment to supporting Ukraine is fraying globally, with the shifting political posture of neighbouring countries and ongoing debates in Washington, where expanded financial commitments are stalled. The IRC continues to sound the alarm to Congress that the failure to pass vital portions of the supplemental request to bolster the U.S. humanitarian aid budget less than 1% of the federal budget, would have catastrophic consequences for people inside Ukraine. The potential cost of reducing humanitarian aid for Ukraine is harrowing, as any escalation in hostilities will drive increased needs and lead to even more displacement.”