The partnership with UNICEF is in line with Ukraine’s commitments under the intergovernmental declaration “Children, Youth and Climate Action”. UNICEF will help ensure a safe and environmentally friendly future for Ukrainian children Climate and Environment
In anticipation of the upcoming UN Climate Change Conference, the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources of Ukraine have joined forces to ensure sustainable post-war recovery by protecting children’s environmental rights and establishing a constructive dialogue with young people on climate issues.
The partnership with UNICEF is in line with Ukraine’s commitments under the intergovernmental declaration “Children, Youth and Climate Action”, signed by Ukraine in 2023, as well as the Paris Agreement.
“The ongoing war and its impact on Ukraine’s environment are increasing children’s vulnerability to climate change,” said Munir Mammadzade, UNICEF Representative in Ukraine. “The solution to these complex issues can and should be found through constructive dialogue with children and young people, engaging them in the fight against climate change. This collaboration is designed to lead to a sustainable recovery based on the interests of the youngest generation of Ukrainians. In the face of ever-growing environmental risks and challenges to maintaining a safe and sustainable environment for children across the country, we must act together without delay.”
To ensure that the recovery is truly sustainable, UNICEF is helping to make Ukraine’s water networks energy efficient and resilient. In addition, as part of emergency assistance to war-affected communities, especially during cold periods, UNICEF’s Water, Sanitation and Hygiene programme provides direct support to municipalities and district heating companies, helping them prepare for winter. UNICEF also supports regional water utilities to ensure that vulnerable groups have access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene.
“Water is the basis of all life,” recalled Ruslan Strylets, Minister of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources of Ukraine. “Today, residents of frontline territories are in dire need of clean water, and this is one of the key topics in discussions with our international partners. We plan to cooperate with UNICEF to implement programs aimed at ensuring access to quality drinking water in nine of the most vulnerable regions of Ukraine, which are closest to the conflict line, as well as to develop Ukraine’s climate policy, improve children’s mental health through visiting national parks and involving them in climate activities.”