Tokyo – The International Organization for Migration (IOM) Ukraine Office signed a grant agreement with the Property Business Network Association on Monday, June 26, during a meeting in Tokyo, Japan. The agreement centres around a USD 500,000 project to repair housing complexes in the city of Irpin, northern Kyiv Region.

According to a United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Damage Assessment, nearly half of the more than 22,000 buildings in Irpin are damaged in some way due to the war. The repair, reconstruction and development of housing is one of the most costly and labour intensive support needed in Ukraine. Yet, it is urgent to ensure displaced and war-affected communities have access to adequate housing and to aid eventual recovery of the country.

"We are very grateful that the Japanese private sector has taken the initiative to contribute to housing provision for displaced persons in Ukraine,” said Anh Nguyen, Director of IOM Ukraine.

The Association is partnering with IOM by providing funds to repair buildings which will help secure living space for 30 displaced families. Additionally improvements to the area around the housing complex like a playground for children and solar street lighting will benefit 300 people living close-by.

The Association also provided free housing for persons who fled Ukraine for Japan since the full-scale Russian invasion began early last year. They are now going beyond supporting Ukrainians in need in Japan by providing vital support to displaced people who have not left the country.

“IOM Ukraine has the largest operation of any UN body in Ukraine and is strengthening its partnership with the private sector. We hope that this project will lead to further public-private partnerships," added Nguyen.　

IOM Ukraine received funding of USD 466 million in 2022 and operated throughout Ukraine with a total staff of over 800 people. So far this year, the Organization has reached more than 4 million people, which has been made possible with the support of donors like the Property Business Network Association and other groups in Japan.