The first half of 2026 in Ukraine was marked by intensified hostilities, continued disruptions to essential services and the cumulative effects of prolonged displacement on affected populations. Protection monitoring in the areas of Ukraine monitored by the IRC identified multiple and interconnected protection risks, including civilian harm, displacement, legal and administrative barriers, economic vulnerability, gender-based violence and psychosocial distress. 

The findings indicate that protection needs are becoming increasingly protracted, requiring integrated and longer-term responses that address overlapping vulnerabilities and structural barriers to recovery.

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