IM steps up efforts in Ukraine and Moldova

We applied for –and have been granted – extra funding from Sida (The Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency) for our work in Ukraine and Moldova. This allows us to scale up our efforts and reach more people affected by the consequences of war, both during the ongoing conflict and in the future reconstruction phase.

A key reason for this initiative is our long-standing engagement in both countries. We have been working in Ukraine and Moldova long before Russia’s full-scale invasion, and for us it was natural to stand by our partners even as circumstances changed dramatically.

“This initiative is about two things. First, we have had long-term commitments in Ukraine and Moldova, even before Russia’s full-scale invasion. For us, it is only natural to remain a reliable partner, even when the situation changes so radically. Ukraine and Moldova are interconnected for us – there is a strong link between the two countries,” says Anders Berg, Head of Global Programmes at IM.

Moldova is one of Europe’s poorest countries and has been heavily affected by the war in its neighbouring country. Many of our partners there support people fleeing Ukraine, while concerns about the future and Russia’s influence remain high.

“The second reason for this initiative is that we now have the opportunity to scale up our work, thanks to the government’s trust in us through Sida. We gain access to more resources when we can demonstrate strong ideas for how support should be organised – and we have succeeded in doing so. We are a partner who stays the course,” Anders Berg adds.

The additional Sida funding enables us to address new and growing needs, particularly in the areas of mental health and trauma support in conflict and post-conflict settings. Such interventions are crucial for people to recover, rebuild their lives, and participate in society after war and crises.

At the same time, support from individuals and companies is more important than ever. Sida’s funding complements our own fundraising, but cannot replace it. To remain flexible, respond to urgent needs, and continue supporting our partners over the long term, we also rely on donations from people and companies who want to make a difference.

By combining public funding with private donations, we can maximise the impact of our work in both Ukraine and Moldova – and continue supporting people living with the direct and long-term consequences of war.

The photo above is from our partner D.O.M.48.24 in Ukraine, which works on, among other things, protecting women who have experienced violence, and providing training for police and authorities on sexual violence. Photo: D.O.M.48.24