ReliefWeb

Situation Overview

Although more than seven weeks have passed since the 5 September ceasefire agreement, serious ceasefire violations are reported daily and shelling has intensified in parts of Donetsk and Luhansk regions. As a result, access is impeded, displacement increased, and civilians in need of assistance and support endangered. In addition, in country humanitarian agencies envisage that this deterioration of the humanitarian situation will be further compounded by the rapidly approaching winter with many IDPs housed in unwinterized shelters. The discontinuation in payment of salaries and social benefits to the affected population in rebel-held areas has resulted in lack of access to food and other commodities due to the absence of resources.

Humanitarian Needs

The humanitarian needs in conflict-affected areas, and particularly those where ongoing insecurity prevents direct humanitarian access as in some parts of Donetsk and Luhansk regions, are significant. Winter has arrived and affected populations require winterized shelter, warm blankets, shoes and clothes. Many hospitals and clinics are closed or partially operational due to lack of supplies and outflow of personnel, and IDPs face challenges to pay for medical treatment in addition to the costs of continued displacement. Local organizations continue to report stigma-related challenges for IDPs to access accommodation and employment opportunities, and tensions where IDP children have been integrated into host community schools. Adequate access to toilets and potable water remains a concern at some collective centers.