510 PS 4: Conflict, migration and health: lessons from Ukraine for community‑led peacebuilding and recovery

Abstract PS 4: Emergency Preparedness - Learning from the experiences of migrants during public health emergencies like COVID-19 and improving preparedness for future crises - Valeriia Rachynska and Poonam Dhavan, Auditorium A & B (Rectory), September 4, 2025, 10:30 - 11:30 Armed conflicts generate profound and long-lasting health inequalities, disrupt essential services, and force millions of people into displacement. Since 2014, Ukraine has faced two major waves of conflict, resulting in more than 6 million refugees, millions of internally displaced persons (IDPs), returnees, and migrant workers. Currently, over 20 % of Ukrainian territory remains under occupation. According to the UN OHCHR, as of 31 July 2025, at least 13 883 civilians have been killed and 35 548 injured since February 2022, though the real figures are believed to be higher. This presentation will explore the health needs of the most vulnerable groups affected by the war: internally displaced persons, refugees, returnees, labour migrants, residents of occupied territories, and those under temporary protection abroad. Particular attention will be given to the urgent demand for mental health support, treatment of orphan diseases, oncology, HIV and tuberculosis services, and prosthetics for people injured in the war. Drawing on the experience of *100% LIFE* – Ukraine’s largest patient‑led civil society organisation – the talk will illustrate how community‑based models can sustain healthcare delivery during wartime and beyond. Civil society has been at the forefront of ensuring continuity of treatment, providing humanitarian aid, and protecting the rights of conflict‑affected populations. Finally, the presentation will highlight the importance of international solidarity and donor engagement in strengthening resilient, people‑centred health systems through direct support to community organisations. By shifting the focus from conflict to peacebuilding and recovery, the Ukrainian experience demonstrates how health can serve as a bridge to resilience, solidarity, and inclusive post‑war development.