Civilian support during wartime - Results from the Nansen Support Programme

• Read the press release: New Norad report: Millions have received electricity and humanitarian assistance through Norwegian support to Ukraine

Russia’s war of aggression has inflicted enormous human and material losses on Ukraine and placed the whole of society under pressure. Nevertheless, Ukrainians have kept public services and businesses running, repaired damaged infrastructure and continued to pursue reforms on the path towards EU membership.

The report «Civilian support during wartime» shows what civilian support through the Nansen Support Programme, administered by Norad, has contributed to in Ukraine and Moldova in 2023–2025. It presents results in energy, humanitarian assistance, fiscal stability, the private sector and governance. These results have been achieved first and foremost by Ukrainians themselves, with support from Norway and other international partners.

Norwegian support has helped save lives, provide protection and maintain critical societal functions. It has also supported jobs, reforms, civil society and independent media. Efforts across these areas are closely interconnected: electricity enables hospitals, schools and businesses to operate, while financing public services helps people continue to live and work during the war. In Moldova, support has contributed to securing energy supplies, assisting vulnerable households and strengthening democratic institutions.

The report also examines challenges, dilemmas and lessons learned from administering support during wartime. Needs change rapidly, risks are high, and results achieved can be lost in further attacks. This requires both a rapid response and a long-term approach, as well as flexibility and oversight. These lessons will inform learning and the further development of support, based on Ukraine’s own needs and its right to determine its own future.