EUROPE
Ukraine
As the war in Ukraine enters its fourth year, the humanitarian crisis remains critical, with 12.7
million people—36% of the population—requiring urgent assistance in 2025. The ongoing
conflict, particularly in the eastern, southern, and northeastern regions, has devastated civilian
lives and infrastructure, leaving millions displaced and struggling to access basic necessities like
food, shelter, healthcare, and clean water. Despite a slight decrease in the overall number of
people in need, the severity of the crisis continues to deepen, especially in front-line areas and
occupied territories, where access to aid remains limited.
The Helpers International, in collaboration with local and international aid organizations, is
committed to providing vital support to Ukraine’s most vulnerable populations. In 2024,
humanitarian groups reached 8.4 million people across the country, with nearly 60% of that
assistance benefiting women and girls. Our efforts will continue in 2025 to address critical needs,
such as food security, healthcare, shelter, cash assistance, and protection, particularly in areas
that remain under heavy attack or occupation. With the ongoing risks of escalating violence,
flexible and agile support is crucial to meeting the evolving needs of those affected by the war.
Your contributions help ensure that essential aid reaches the most vulnerable, providing life-
saving relief and supporting long- term resilience in communities facing unimaginable
challenges.
Greece
In 2025, Greece remains a key entry point for refugees and migrants fleeing conflict and
hardship across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. The ongoing influx of displaced populations
continues to put immense pressure on Greece’s local infrastructure, public services, and
resources, with refugee camps remaining overcrowded and unable to fully meet the needs of
those arriving. The country’s economic challenges further complicate efforts to provide adequate
support, making it difficult for authorities and humanitarian organizations to respond effectively.
As a result, the demand for shelter, food, and essential services, such as legal assistance and
psychological support, has reached critical levels.
The Helpers International is dedicated to providing support to those affected, helping ensure that
refugees and migrants receive the care and services they need. Our focus includes not only
immediate humanitarian aid but also long-term solutions for integration, stability, and self-
reliance, aiming to empower displaced individuals and families as they navigate the challengesof starting anew in a foreign land. Your support helps us continue these vital efforts, providing
dignity and hope to those facing an uncertain future in Greece.
Turkey
Turkey continues to play a pivotal role as a refuge for millions affected by regional conflicts,
notably hosting one of the world’s largest refugee populations due to the Syrian Civil War. As of
December 2024, approximately 3.25 million registered Syrian refugees reside in Turkey, with
significant communities in cities such as Istanbul, Gaziantep, and Sanlıurfa.
In addition to its refugee challenges, Turkey’s susceptibility to natural disasters, particularly
earthquakes, remains a pressing concern. The catastrophic earthquake of February 2023, which
struck near Gaziantep, resulted in over 50,000 fatalities and extensive infrastructural damage.
Despite ongoing reconstruction efforts, as of February 2025, approximately 650,000 individuals
continue to reside in temporary container housing, highlighting the long-term impact of such
disasters.
These compounded challenges underscore the persistent need for comprehensive humanitarian
assistance in Turkey, encompassing emergency relief, infrastructure reconstruction, and support
services for displaced populations. Addressing these needs is crucial to alleviate human suffering
and promote stability within the region.
Turkey
Turkey continues to play a pivotal role as a refuge for millions affected by regional conflicts,
notably hosting one of the world’s largest refugee populations due to the Syrian Civil War. As of
December 2024, approximately 3.25 million registered Syrian refugees reside in Turkey, with
significant communities in cities such as Istanbul, Gaziantep, and Sanlıurfa.
In addition to its refugee challenges, Turkey’s susceptibility to natural disasters, particularly
earthquakes, remains a pressing concern. The catastrophic earthquake of February 2023, which
struck near Gaziantep, resulted in over 50,000 fatalities and extensive infrastructural damage.
Despite ongoing reconstruction efforts, as of February 2025, approximately 650,000 individuals
continue to reside in temporary container housing, highlighting the long-term impact of such
disasters.
These compounded challenges underscore the persistent need for comprehensive humanitarian
assistance in Turkey, encompassing emergency relief, infrastructure reconstruction, and support
services for displaced populations. Addressing these needs is crucial to alleviate human suffering
and promote stability within the region.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina continues to face significant challenges stemming from its complex
history and environmental vulnerabilities. The legacy of the 1990s Balkan Wars persists, with
landmines remaining a serious concern. Despite efforts, as of 2025, approximately 1,125 km2
(2.2% of the country’s territory) are still contaminated, affecting over 538,000 people in more
than 1,400 communities. The original goal to clear all mines by 2019 has been extended to 2025;
however, financial constraints suggest that this target may not be met, and some experts predict
that complete clearance could take several more decades.
In October 2024, Bosnia and Herzegovina experienced devastating floods, resulting in 27
fatalities and widespread destruction. These floods highlighted the nation’s vulnerability to
natural disasters, exacerbated by climate change. The World Bank estimates that Bosnia needs to
invest $6.8 billion over the next decade to mitigate climate-related risks, including floods, which
could otherwise reduce the country’s GDP by up to 14% by 2050. Investments in flood
prevention infrastructure and a transition to renewable energy sources are among the
recommended measures to enhance resilience.
Ethnic divisions continue to influence Bosnia and Herzegovina’s political landscape,
occasionally leading to tensions that challenge social cohesion. Addressing these issues requires
ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity and unity among the diverse communities.