A delegation from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in Ukraine, led by humanitarian coordinator Mr. Matthias Schmale, is currently in Odessa.
The purpose of the visit is to assess the situation and discuss future cooperation steps.
On October 15, 2024, during a meeting, acting mayor of Odessa Oleksandr Filatov and the mayor's advisor on social and humanitarian issues Veronika Etnarovich discussed with Mr. Schmale the safety concerns and humanitarian needs of the city amidst military aggression, the support for internally displaced persons, and preparations for the winter period.
The parties also talked about plans for further collaboration with charitable organizations and international partners.
Additionally, the UN delegation visited the city’s Center for Social and Psychological Assistance for internally displaced persons and individuals affected by the armed conflict, where about 100 displaced persons currently reside.
UN representatives familiarized themselves with the living conditions of the individuals, interacting with the displaced persons and the staff of the Center.
Mr. Matthias Schmale noted that the Center, which provides comfortable living conditions for those forced to leave their homes, is among the best in Ukraine.
On October 16, the UN delegation visited Sofiivska Street, 6, where emergency repair works on the roof of a residential building are being conducted thanks to cooperation between charitable organizations and municipal services.
Summarizing the visit, Matthias Schmale expressed solidarity with the people of Ukraine and emphasized that international support for Ukraine remains a critical component for ensuring stability and security for the population amid ongoing conflict.
«I was very pleased to hear the city authorities' priorities – we discussed energy infrastructure needs, winter preparations, and assistance for internally displaced persons,» Mr. Schmale remarked.
