UN Refugee Agency and Ukraine's Ministry Sign Cooperation Deal for Displaced Persons

A New Agreement for Displaced Ukrainians

According to Пенсії (RSS): Ukraine's Ministry of Social Policy, the Pension Fund of Ukraine, and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on issues of internal displacement, return, and reintegration of Ukrainians, as well as developing state policies to support individuals and communities. This partnership aims to improve conditions for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and refugees affected by the war, a population numbering in the millions since the full-scale invasion began in 2022.

Denys Ulutin, Ukraine's Minister of Social Policy, Family, and Unity, emphasized the significance of the memorandum, stating:

“The citizens who have suffered from the war must be at the center of recovery.” - Denys Ulutin

Key Areas of Focus

The primary areas of cooperation outlined in the agreement include:

• strengthening the system of social services;
• expanding access to aid for the most vulnerable population groups;
• improving the IDP registry and digital solutions.

Additionally, the memorandum provides for the development of social housing policy and mechanisms for accessing housing, as well as preparations for the return of Ukrainians from abroad. The Ministry of Social Policy is finalizing a Strategy and Action Plan on internal displacement, which will be a crucial step in implementing these initiatives. This formal framework is part of a broader effort to coordinate international support with national recovery programs.

The signing of this memorandum represents a significant step in supporting people affected by the conflict in Ukraine. Cooperation between state institutions and international organizations can substantially improve living conditions for IDPs and refugees by providing them with access to essential resources and services. It also signals growing attention to the critical issues of reintegration and social support, which are vital against the backdrop of the ongoing war and its profound consequences for the population.