Published on: 2026-08-16
Source: United Nations – Объединенные Нации –
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August 16, 2026 Healthcare
In the fifth year of the full-scale war, the situation in many regions of Ukraine remains unstable, and the country’s healthcare system continues to operate under immense pressure. The situation is especially difficult in frontline areas, where women face disruptions in the provision of essential sexual and reproductive health services. It has become harder for them to receive gynecological, prenatal, and postnatal care, as well as support in cases of 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 Kharkiv aimed at ensuring safe and uninterrupted medical care for women and newborns.
As part of the project, it is planned to repair and equip the basement premises of two functioning maternity hospitals. This will allow medical staff to continue providing necessary assistance during attacks and air raids.
“Safe medical care in the field of maternal and reproductive health is of utmost importance for residents of areas affected by the war. Through this partnership, UNOPS and UNFPA are strengthening medical infrastructure so that women and newborns can receive the necessary care in safer and more dignified conditions,” said Massimo Diana, UNOPS representative in Eastern Europe and Ukraine.
Emergency care, childbirth assistance, help for women with pregnancy complications, surgical operations, as well as postpartum care and rehabilitation services for mothers and newborns can be provided in the underground units. In addition, the facilities will serve as shelters for patients and medical personnel.
“No woman should be forced to give birth in dangerous conditions due to shelling, power outages, or damage to medical infrastructure,” stated UNFPA representative in Ukraine Jacqueline Mahon. “In Kharkiv, medical personnel continue to provide assistance under extreme pressure. These protected underground wards will allow women and newborns to receive safe and quality medical care even if attacks intensify.”
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