Sustainable Cooperation: Ukraine and UNHCR Are Building the Social Sector Together

Minister of Social Policy, Family and Unity of Ukraine, Denys Ulyutin, met with the representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in Ukraine (UNHCR Ukraine) Karolina Lindholm Billing.

The dialogue covered current cooperation and future priorities of engagement between the Ministry and UNHCR. Particular attention was given to the support for internally displaced persons (IDPs), the protection of individuals affected by the war, and the development of sustainable solutions in Ukraine.

"I sincerely thank the UNHCR team for their consistent support during one of the most difficult periods in Ukraine’s history – amid Russia’s aggression. From the very beginning, you have worked hand in hand with the Government of Ukraine, and this cooperation has been extremely valuable.

We highly appreciate our partnership, which over the years has become truly strategic. Through close coordination, more than 460,000 households have received additional solid fuel top-ups, and since 2022, and cash assistance has reached 2.2 million people. I also wish to highlight your contribution to developing assisted living services for older persons and people with low mobility. This is a clear example of how government and humanitarian resources can be effectively combined to support the most vulnerable. Thank you for your leadership, humanity, and commitment to protecting Ukrainians both inside the country and abroad," said Denys Ulyutin.

The Minister added that UNHCR has consistently advocated for aligning humanitarian assistance with key reforms, which has significantly strengthened the Government’s capacity to act strategically.

Discussions also focused on harmonizing humanitarian aid with national reforms, enhancing social protection for IDPs, and developing systemic solutions for their return and reintegration. Participants underlined the importance of supporting the most vulnerable groups, particularly through assisted living services and evacuation support during crises.

Among the outcomes of cooperation, financial assistance programs were highlighted. The issue of Ukrainian refugees abroad and their sustainable reintegration into local communities was also raised, including migration forecasting and coordination with the European Commission and host countries.

The participants agreed to prepare a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) covering expanded areas of cooperation, including the Unity Hubs project. They also reaffirmed joint advocacy efforts to ensure long-term support for people affected by the war.

"It’s truly been a privilege to serve alongside the people of Ukraine. It’s been extremely inspiring. Ukrainians want to remain part of their communities and preserve their homes. Our task is to help them build their future where their roots are. Ukrainians are not helpless – they simply need tools and support to remain resilient during the war. We will continue to stand by their side as partners, to support them and to safeguard their interests," added Karolina Lindholm Billing.

Karolina Lindholm Billing – a reliable ally of Ukraine – is concluding her mission in the country. Over the past four years, joint efforts have made it possible to implement a number of important projects, each of which reflects the lives and stories of people: renovated family-type children’s homes, support for internally displaced persons through rental subsidies, assistance to vulnerable families during the winter period, and the modernization of social infrastructure. This partnership has been not only a response to the challenges of war, but also a contribution to recovery, integration, and the expansion of opportunities for communities.

The meeting marked an important step in strengthening the partnership between Ukraine and international organizations, aimed at enhancing social protection and supporting those most in need.

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