GENEVA, Feb 25 (IPS) – After surviving the worst winter in a decade, millions of displaced Ukrainians face a growing crisis marked by hardship and persistent attacks, while prospects for peace remain remote.
In Ukraine, repeated attacks on homes, energy systems and essential services during the winter left millions of people without heat or electricity for extended periods. As temperatures slowly rise, the damage continues. An estimated 10.8 million people in the country will need humanitarian assistance by 2026, and 3.7 million are internally displaced.
At the same time, 5.9 million Ukrainians remain refugees abroad. Across Europe, host countries have provided protection and opportunity on an unprecedented scale, giving refugees access to education, healthcare and employment. This has helped millions of people regain stability and contribute to host communities.
However, as the war continues, more is needed to support refugees following a displacement crisis with no clear end. In addition to temporary protection, states should explore options for alternative arrangements for longer stays. These can especially bring stability to the most vulnerable, for whom return may not be immediately possible even after the war.
There is evidence that meaningful inclusion delivers results and that refugees significantly boost host country economies. In Poland, analysis by UNHCR and Deloitte showed that the net impact of Ukrainian refugees in 2024 was 2.7 percent of Poland’s GDP. More language training and broader recognition of qualifications can improve access to decent work and self-reliance for refugees across the region.
In Ukraine, communities continue to repair homes, restore services and rebuild livelihoods, with the support of UNHCR and NGO partners. But after four years of war, resilience has limits. Sustainable humanitarian assistance remains essential, alongside increased support for recovery and reconstruction to prevent further displacement and enable safe conditions for return.
When conditions permit, a gradual and voluntary return will be crucial for Ukraine’s recovery. UNHCR is working with the government and partners to recover people’s documents, support the recovery of social infrastructure and repair war-damaged homes. UNHCR is also working with partners to analyze refugee intentions, predict return movements and support Ukraine’s recovery planning.
Since the start of the large-scale war, UNHCR and partners have supported 10 million people with emergency assistance, protection services and psychosocial support. By 2026, UNHCR plans to help an additional 2 million people in the country, provided sufficient funding is provided. Across the region, UNHCR and partners are supporting 1.7 million refugees and the states that host them, with a focus on inclusion and self-reliance.
As winter fades, the humanitarian crisis does not disappear. We must support the people of Ukraine with humanitarian assistance and recovery at home, and with security and self-reliance abroad.
Philippe Leclerc is UNHCR’s Regional Director for Europe and Regional Refugee Coordinator for the situation in Ukraine
IPS UN Office
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