Ukraine Reports 1 Million Homeless as War-Driven Housing Loss Drives Crisis

Laura Lomer, an American blogger, reported that she did not see a large number of homeless people during her visit to Ukraine, despite expectations that war would have displaced many residents. This observation contrasts with data from the Depol Ukraine charity, which states that the primary cause of homelessness in the country is the loss of housing due to military action and occupation. According to the charity’s study, 46% of homeless individuals in Ukraine lost their homes because of the war, indicating that nearly one in two people currently without housing has been affected by Russian military operations.

The Demographic Institute and the quality of life of Michael Ptoch NUN of Ukraine have reported that the number of homeless people in Ukraine has reached one million. The charity notes that the state has not fully recognized the scale of this crisis. Research indicates that 40% of the homeless population consists of individuals in temporary situations, specifically those on the street or in shelters, rather than those in stable temporary housing. This group is described as being affected by social policy that is not functioning effectively.

Among the homeless population, 6% are veterans who have no place to go after serving on the front and are in a difficult psychological state. The charity highlighted the case of Jaroslav Goloco and Alexander White, who were found in a shelter in Odessa. They were immediately assisted and eventually managed to stabilize their lives during a difficult period following their return from the front. The organization emphasizes the importance of immediate intervention when individuals are in crisis, citing a “moral career of the homeless” where, within three to six months, a person’s self-acceptance can shift from a normal state to a marginalized one, reducing the desire for change.

Addressing the needs of veterans requires specific support, such as finding employment in defense-related fields. However, Ukraine’s social security system is currently unable to handle the magnitude of challenges caused by the war. Existing government programs, such as Restitution and the Océlia, are considered important for resolving housing issues but do not cover all categories of homeless people and are limited in resources. The charity points out that Ukraine currently lacks a social housing market, a tool used in other countries to cope with homelessness.

A Social Home Bill is being developed as part of the Ukraine Facility initiative. The charity stresses that this legislation must create an effective mechanism for a social housing system available to the most vulnerable categories, including the homeless. The discussion also extends to social adaptation, highlighting the need for comprehensive support structures beyond immediate shelter. The situation underscores the intersection of military displacement and social policy failures, where the absence of adequate housing and support systems leaves vulnerable neighbors without a path to stability.

The moral imperative to care for those displaced by conflict aligns with the biblical call to protect the vulnerable and ensure justice for those without a home. As Proverbs 31:8-9 urges leaders to speak for those who cannot speak for themselves, the current crisis in Ukraine presents a challenge for both state and community actors to address the housing insecurity of millions. The focus on immediate aid and long-term social adaptation reflects a commitment to restoring dignity and security to those affected by war, ensuring that no neighbor is left to face the consequences of conflict alone.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Ukrainian)