Rebuilding what the war tears down
Translation UNHCR's emergency housing program helps rebuild destroyed homes in Ukraine.
The attacks on Ukraine continue, and over 2.5 million homes have been destroyed since Russia's full-scale invasion. With support from Norway, UNHCR is working continuously to rebuild homes and communities.
Everything was shattered into pieces
Around 3.7 million people have been internally displaced in Ukraine and the UN estimates that a total of 12.7 million people need humanitarian assistance. Amid this crisis, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is rebuilding homes and communities.
One of those who has received help is Natalie. Her village was occupied by Russia, and soldiers moved onto the family farm. Natalie had to flee to protect herself and her children.
– When we heard planes flying over the village, we were very scared. I thought about my daughter, says Natalie.
The family could only return home when Ukraine regained control of the area.
– What I saw was a nightmare. The windows were broken. Everything in my home was stolen or destroyed - shattered into pieces, says Natalie.
With help from UNHCR, the house was rebuilt.
– I cannot live without my farm and my village, says Natalie.
40 000 homes repaired – a way back to everyday life
Since the start of the full-scale invasion, UNHCR has contributed to repairing 40 000 damaged homes. The project is part of UNHCR's Emergency Shelter and Housing Programme and includes:
- Emergency housing support: Distribution of emergency packages with materials for quick and easy repairs.
- Long-term rehabilitation: Renovation of multi-story buildings.
- Social housing projects: Construction of prefabricated homes and rehabilitation of collective housing units for internally displaced persons.
The full-scale invasion of Ukraine has triggered the largest refugee crisis in Europe since World War II. Norwegian support for UNHCR is crucial for more people to receive assistance.
The need for support remains significant. UNHCR's efforts, with Norway's contribution, demonstrate how international cooperation can help provide people with a home and a new start. With continued support from Norway and other donors, even more families can have the opportunity to return.
Norway has been a significant supporter of UNHCR's humanitarian efforts in Ukraine. Through the Nansen Support Programme, Norway contributed with more than 595 million NOK to UNHCR's work in Ukraine and Moldova in 2024.
Stories from the Nansen Support Programme for Ukraine are based on texts produced and shared by the programme's civil and humanitarian partner organizations. Read more stories here.