UN Delegation in Odesa: Collaboration and Support Amid Crisis
A delegation from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in Ukraine is currently in Odesa, led by Humanitarian Coordinator Mr. Matthias Schmale.
The visit aims to assess the situation and discuss further collaboration steps.
On October 15, 2024, during a meeting, acting Mayor of Odesa Oleksandr Filatov and the mayor's advisor on social and humanitarian issues Veronika Etnarovych discussed security concerns and humanitarian needs of the city amidst military aggression, support for internally displaced persons, and winter preparations with Mr. Schmale.
The parties also explored plans for future collaboration with charity organizations and international partners.
Additionally, UN delegation members visited the city Center for Social and Psychological Assistance for internally displaced persons and those affected by armed conflict, currently housing about 100 displaced individuals.
The UN representatives assessed the living conditions of the individuals, talking with displaced persons and staff at the Center.
Mr. Matthias Schmale noted that the Center, which provides comfortable living conditions for people who have had to leave their homes, is one of the best in Ukraine.
On October 16, the UN delegation visited Sofiivska Street, 6, where emergency repair work is being conducted on the roof of a residential building due to collaboration with charity organizations and municipal services.
In summarizing the visit, Matthias Schmale expressed solidarity with the Ukrainian people and emphasized that international support for Ukraine remains a crucial element for ensuring stability and security amid the ongoing conflict.
«I was very pleased to hear about the priorities of the city authorities – we discussed the needs for energy infrastructure, winter preparations, and assistance to internally displaced persons,» Mr. Schmale remarked.
