From the start of the war in Ukraine, a full year has passed. The UN estimates that 17.6 million people need assistance, and in 2023, the organization is asking for more than NOK 55 billion for humanitarian relief to help those impacted, a press release from Norway’s government states.
According to Foreign Affairs Minister Anniken Huitfeldt, Norway, a major contributor to Ukraine, is committed to supporting the Ukrainian people and will provide NOK 400 million in funding for UN humanitarian efforts in the first half of 2023.
Ms. Huitfeldt stated that the ongoing war in Ukraine is leading to an increase in casualties, distress, and displacement. Norway remains committed to providing humanitarian aid to the Ukrainian civilians. To support the millions of people in need, Norway is allocating NOK 400 million to UN aid efforts, as per Ms. Huitfeldt’s announcement.
The money will be used to support initiatives under the recently unveiled UN Humanitarian Response Plan for Ukraine, which aims to meet both humanitarian and refugee needs. Around 86% of Ukrainian refugees are women and children, according to the UN. Norway was able to immediately promise first support since it is in a position to promptly provide flexible money.
Norway has contributed about NOK 2.6 billion to humanitarian causes since the war began. The UN, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, as well as significant Norwegian and international humanitarian organizations, are directing the support.
The humanitarian tenets serve as the foundation for Norway’s humanitarian operations.
According to Ms. Huitfeldt, the consequences of Russia’s war extend far beyond the conflict zone. The civilian suffering and extensive destruction are difficult to comprehend. Norway firmly denounces Russia’s aggressive war in Ukraine and stands in solidarity with the Ukrainian people’s rightful efforts to defend themselves.
A multi-year support program for Ukraine has been approved by a large majority of the Storting. With annual payouts of NOK 15 billion over five years, the support program has a total budget of NOK 75 billion. With the flexibility this provides, Norway’s humanitarian partners will be able to respond with a long-term view and sustain a high level of support over time.
