The Russian War on Ukraine has caused devastation on so many levels. Countless lives lost. A calamitous social and economic toll which has destroyed millions of livelihoods. A 30% drop in GDP. An estimated 15.5% drop in employment, which equals 2.4 million lost jobs.

ILO forecasts for 2023 suggest a stagnant labour market as the war continues to ravage the economy. While the initial phase of the conflict called for humanitarian and budget support, it is increasingly apparent that development assistance needs to be delivered in parallel, which is what the ILO is contributing to.

Families, workers and enterprises cannot afford to wait. They need support now.

In close collaboration with our Ukrainian constituents, the government, trade unions and employers, we have identified some key priorities: job creation, including for internally displaced people, IDPs, returnees and people with disabilities; economic stabilization in the relatively safe areas of the country; and support for the government's effort to modernize labour, employment and social protection policies which continue despite it having to manage a war economy.

A rapid recovery is only possible if sound foundations, built on decent work and social justice are laid now as an essential precondition for peace.