© UNOPS The UN project in Kharkov is designed to provide mothers and newborns with the necessary medical care. In Kharkov, with the support of the UN, underground units for mothers and newborns will be equipped Healthcare
In the fifth year of a full-scale war, the situation in many regions of Ukraine remains unstable, and the country’s healthcare system continues to operate under enormous pressure. The situation remains particularly difficult in frontline areas, where women face disruptions in the provision of critical sexual and reproductive health services. It has become more difficult for them to access gynecological, antenatal and postnatal care, as well as support for gender-based violence.
The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), with financial support from the Government of Ireland, are implementing a project in Kharkov to provide safe and uninterrupted health care for women and newborns.
As part of the project, it is planned to renovate and equip the basements of two existing maternity hospitals. This will allow doctors to continue to provide essential care during attacks and air raids.
“Safe maternal and reproductive health care is essential for residents of war-torn areas. Through this partnership, UNOPS and UNFPA are strengthening the medical infrastructure so that women and newborns can receive the care they need in safer and more dignified conditions,” said Massimo Diana, UNOPS Representative for Eastern Europe and Ukraine. surgical operations, as well as provide postpartum care and rehabilitation services to mothers and newborns. In addition, the premises will serve as shelters for patients and medical staff.
“No woman should be forced to give birth in dangerous conditions due to shelling, power outages or damage to medical infrastructure,” said UNFPA Representative in Ukraine Jacqueline Mahon. – In Kharkov, doctors continue to provide assistance under conditions of extreme stress. These secure underground units will allow women and newborns to receive safe, quality medical care even as attacks intensify.”