People displaced by the war at a transit center in Dnipro. WHO asks for $110 million to help Ukraine Health
Almost three years after the start of the full-scale war against Ukraine, the World Health Organization (WHO) has released its Flash Appeal for 2025, asking for $68.4 million. In addition to providing humanitarian assistance related to the ongoing conflict, WHO also plans to support the restoration and reform of Ukraine’s health system. This requires an additional $41.6 million, bringing the total funding needed to $110 million.
According to the UN, 12.7 million Ukrainians require urgent humanitarian support amid the ongoing conflict, 9.2 million of whom require some form of health care. This number also includes three million people with critical health needs. The unpredictability of the conflict could lead to either further deterioration or potential stabilization, WHO believes. “As we look to the future, we remain focused on maintaining and expanding essential health services in Ukraine,” said Dr Hans Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe. “Behind the numbers are human stories: from a pregnant woman fearing for her unborn child during childbirth, to an older person struggling with deteriorating mental health, to a three-year-old boy missing a routine immunization. In 2025, WHO is committed to supporting them all, working closely with the Ministry of Health of Ukraine and other partners.” “For almost three years, Ukraine’s health workers and health system have demonstrated remarkable resilience,” said Dr Jarno Habicht, WHO Representative in Ukraine. “WHO’s humanitarian response complements the dedicated efforts of Ukraine’s doctors, nurses and volunteers. Ukraine is responding to the ongoing conflict while implementing much-needed health sector reforms. WHO is supporting Ukraine along this path, helping to strengthen the health system and improve the health of its population.” The WHO Emergency Response Strategy for Ukraine 2025 aims to strengthen emergency and critical health services, ensure continuity of essential health services and address the profound impact of war on the health system, particularly in areas along the contact line.