Jersey’s International Development Minister has said islanders “should be proud of the difference we have made to the lives of thousands of people” through supporting humanitarian aid in Ukraine – as today marks four years since the Russian invasion.
Deputy Carolyn Labey said that “the generosity shown by the people of Jersey” had helped provide “essential relief to those displaced or impacted by the conflict”.
A Bailiff’s Appeal launched following the invasion raising £4.5 million through public donations, government support and Jersey Overseas Aid’s own humanitarian budget.
The appeal has enabled financial support to other humanitarian agencies addressing multiple needs – including essential healthcare, mine clearance training, mobile incubators and other vital services for those impacted by the conflict.
Jersey Overseas Aid has released a video message from Islander Leila Osman, who has been working alongside the UNHCR in Ukraine as part of a JOA-backed programme.
Currently based in Kyiv, Ms Osman is Jersey’s fourth United Nations junior professional officer.
UNHCR is the largest humanitarian actor operating in the war-torn country, providing emergency shelter support after attacks in frontline and heavily affected regions.
It has helped repair almost 55,000 homes and provide cash assistance to more than 2.4 million people, including through a programme that helps vulnerable families cover energy needs during winter as well as evacuees or families whose homes have been impacted by air strikes.
Our community’s compassion and commitment reflect our shared belief in protecting human dignity and supporting those in need
International Development Minister Carolyn Labey
Other forms of aid include the provision of home insulation kits, generators and portable power stations, as well as legal counselling and psychosocial support.
In a statement, the International Development Minister said: “Jersey continues to stand in solidarity with the people affected by the war in Ukraine, offering support to trusted international partners including the UN’s refugee agency, UNHCR, and other humanitarian agencies providing life-saving assistance.”
Deputy Labey continued: “The generosity shown by the people of Jersey, through the Bailiff’s Appeal, combined with allocations from Jersey Overseas Aid has allowed for significant support for essential relief to those displaced or impacted by the conflict.
“Our community’s compassion and commitment reflect our shared belief in protecting human dignity and supporting those in need.
“Islanders should be proud of the difference we have made to the lives of thousands of people living in unbearable conditions and who face unimaginable challenges every day.”
