The world’s largest employer and trade union groups unite to call for support of UN Ukraine appeal

IOE and ITUC issue joint call to support UNHCR's urgent humanitarian work in Ukraine.

The International Organisation of Employers (IOE) and the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) call on their members and the international donor community to support the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) emergency appeal to assist civilians fleeing the armed conflict in Ukraine. IOE represents some 50 million companies in over 150 countries. The ITUC represents 200 million members in 163 countries.

The humanitarian situation in Ukraine and bordering countries is deteriorating rapidly as the conflict escalates. Humanitarian groups are reporting that some 12 million people are enduring extreme hardship and suffering, lacking access to basic necessities such as water, shelter, food and proper healthcare, while more than 4 million Ukrainian refugees are predicted to need protection and assistance in neighbouring countries in the coming months.

“IOE and ITUC are ready to do what we can to assist the victims of this conflict. Together we support calls for the protection of the civilian population and the opening of humanitarian corridors. And together we are ready to facilitate dialogue through our joint channels of communication and work towards ending this terrible human catastrophe,” explains Roberto Suárez Santos, IOE Secretary-General.

“Support for the UNHCR appeal is absolutely vital. All those affected, those in Ukraine and those who have had to flee, require the support of the international community,” says ITUC General Secretary Sharan Burrow.

IOE and ITUC urge their members and the international donor community to contribute to the UNHCR appeal. Click here to donate.

Please also find this joint call in the Resources section.