The Government of Estonia continues to support UNFPA in its humanitarian response in Ukraine. This year, Estonia has allocated $50,000 to projects aimed at helping young people in war-affected regions, including the development of a sexuality education programme.

"In the midst of humanitarian crises, we often see the unique needs of youth and adolescents overlooked, even though they are profoundly affected. It is essential to recognize that supporting the development and well-being of these young individuals is not just a matter of immediate relief but a vital investment in the future and recovery of Ukraine. We are immensely thankful for the support from the Government of Estonia, which highlights the critical need for sustained focus and resources for the well-being of Ukrainian youth," remarked Massimo Diana, UNFPA Representative in Ukraine.

This funding will contribute to the implementation of the Pubertat project, which was initiated with the support of the Government of Estonia in 2022. The Pubertat project is an interactive online platform that provides adolescents with access to evidence-based information on physical, mental, and sexual health and highlights issues of safety and healthy relationships. Special attention is paid to matters related to the humanitarian context and the challenges faced by adolescents during the ongoing war.

 The funding will also support youth workers, professionals, and specialists working with young people from Luhansk, Donetsk, and Dnipro regions, with a particular focus on those living and working near the frontline, and internally displaced youth in host communities. This will reinforce efforts to build resilience, strengthen coping skills, and improve the mental health of young people from these regions.

We are grateful to Estonia for their continued support to UNFPA in our efforts to empower and protect vulnerable young people and adolescents in Ukraine.