Three Years of Full-Scale War – Norway’s Contribution Through the Nansen Programme
At Lychakiv Cemetery in Lviv, Ukraine, citizens and families participated in a memorial ceremony for fallen soldiers.
Three years have passed since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The war has caused immense destruction, yet the Ukrainian people continue to stand strong. Throughout this time, Norway has remained a committed partner, providing both military and civilian support.
At the same time, Ukraine has endured war for more than a decade. This March marks 11 years since Russian forces occupied Crimea and entered eastern Ukraine. The struggle for freedom and independence continues, and international solidarity is crucial to Ukraine’s resilience.
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A critical need for support
The scale of destruction in Ukraine is vast, and the need for aid remains urgent. Through the Nansen Programme, Norway has provided NOK 24.9 billion in civilian assistance.
Norwegian support is essential for Ukraine’s resilience. Through the Nansen Programme, we provide critical emergency aid and contribute to rebuilding the energy sector. Ukraine is the largest recipient of Norwegian aid.
Norway has pledged NOK 154.5 billion to the Nansen Programme, which runs until 2030.
Vital support for families and refugees
Through international organizations such as the UN and the World Bank, Norwegian aid is improving the lives of millions of Ukrainians.
– Cash assistance has been a crucial tool for reaching the most vulnerable. In Ukraine, it has helped families endure harsh winters, enabling them to afford heating, clothing, and food, says Jorun Nossum, Director of the Nansen Programme at Norad.
Key Contributions from Norwegian Humanitarian Aid:
- 3 million people have received food or cash support
- 5.8 million people, particularly in frontline areas, now have access to clean water and sanitation services
- 2 million people have received medical assistance
- 3,144,670 m² of land has been cleared of mines by Norwegian People’s Aid and HALO Trust
In 2024 alone, Norway has allocated NOK 755 million to support UNHCR’s work in Ukraine and Moldova.
🔗 40 Minutes to Pack Up a Life – Read about Norway’s support to UNHCR
Through the Nansen Programme, Norway has contributed over 755 million NOK to UNHCR’s work in Ukraine and Moldova in 2024.
Ensuring energy security
Russia’s targeted attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure have led to frequent power outages and an unstable heating supply. Restoring power stations, expanding renewable energy, and improving district heating are therefore key priorities of the Nansen Programme. Norway has supported these efforts with NOK 3.3 billion.
Funds are channeled through the UNDP, the World Bank, and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).
- 1.5 million people benefit from a more stable electricity supply
- Norway has contributed NOK 2.6 billion for gas purchases, essential for power generation, heating, and cooking
- Power grids are being restored to support Ukrenergo, Ukraine’s state energy company, with aid from the World Bank and EBRD
Support for reforms and anti-corruption efforts
The war in Ukraine is not only about territory, it is also a battle for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. Military resistance alone is not enough; Ukraine must also build strong institutions, uphold press freedom, and combat corruption to strengthen its independence and integrate with Europe.
Key Norwegian contributions:
- Council of Europe Action Plan for Ukraine (2023–2026): Supporting judicial reforms, press freedom, and institutional development—key elements of Ukraine’s EU integration process
- Anti-corruption efforts: Norway funds the OECD Ukraine Country Programme, UNODC (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime), and the World Bank, assisting Ukrainian authorities with governance reforms and financial transparency
- Direct support for ukrainian civil society: A new funding initiative provides financial aid to local organizations engaged in humanitarian assistance, human rights, and anti-corruption efforts
Ukraine’s future will not be determined solely on the battlefield but also through efforts to build a democratic and transparent state. Civil society plays a crucial role in this process, and we must stand with them.