Kyiv, 19 December 2023 – In response to the significant challenges posed by explosive ordnance (EO) contamination in Ukraine's war-affected oblasts, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has introduced a new victim assistance model. This model, compliant with the International Mine Action Standard (IMAS) 13.10, is designed to offer comprehensive support, including medical care, rehabilitation, psychological support, and socio-economic integration for those impacted by mines, explosive remnants of war (ERW), and unexploded ordnance.

At a recent event to unveil the new model, key stakeholders, including Ukrainian government ministries, the National Authority for Mine Action, and various international and public organisations, convened to discuss support strategies for those affected by explosive ordnance in Ukraine. The event aimed to strengthen collaboration among these groups to improve victim assistance.

Currently, Ukraine is recognized as the mostEO-contaminated territory globally, with mines and explosive remnants of war posing a severe threat to the lives and well-being of its citizens. Authorities and field experts report that the extensive demining process, which is necessary for an area estimated to bebetween 136,000 and 200,000 square kilometres, is anticipated to span decades. 

Speaking at the event, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative Christophoros Politis said the model, based on international best practices, emphasises multi-stakeholder engagement in support of EO victims. "We consider the model developed technically by UNDP’s experts as a roadmap for the future, where all national and local authorities, international partners, and civil society can play an important role in alleviating the negative consequences caused by war," he said. "The model also facilitates a dignified reinsertion in social and economic life for EO victims. Regardless of the damage caused by war, every person should be given the opportunity to pursue a rights-based path to recovery.”

Deputy Minister of Economy of Ukraine Ihor Bezkaravainiy noted that protection of the mine survivors is a one of the comprehensive goals identified as one of the three strategic objectives under the National Mine Action Strategy. “It demands joint efforts of all the relevant governmental agencies to achieve it – in cooperation and synergy with the international and national partners. And it is our mission as the Ministry of Economy to secure such a result”.

Colonel Ruslan Berehulia, Head of the Main Department of Mine Action, Civil Defense, and Environmental Security and Head of the Secretariat of the National Authority for Mine Action, emphasised that employment is one of the most effective means to support the victims of explosive ordnance. He stated, "Work facilitates the victim's reintegration into social life post-trauma, and their involvement in the field of humanitarian demining also instils a sense of the significance of their mission. Constantly contributing to reducing future incidents related to mines and explosive remnants of war," Berehulia added.

The presentation of the model followed a situational analysis conducted in July-August 2023, examining the challenges faced by communities recently returned under the control of the Government of Ukraine. The analysis reviewed current regulations, available services, and assistance at the national and local levels, emphasising the importance of a comprehensive approach to organising victim assistance and the involvement of various sectors, including health care, social protection, education, employment, and others.

Background:

The event was organised within the project “Promotion of human security in Ukraine through responding to the multidimensional crisis caused by the war” funded by the Government of Japan.

Media enquiries:

Yuliia Samus, UNDP Ukraine Head of Communications; e-mail: yuliia.samus@undp.org