When war broke out in Ukraine in February 2022, it didn’t just affect one nation—it disrupted lives across the region. As thousands fled to safety, neighbouring countries became lifelines for those seeking shelter, support, and hope. United Nations Volunteers (UNV) has been on the frontlines of the UN’s emergency response—both inside the country and across the region. Mobilizing volunteers fast, from Moldova to Poland, Romania to Slovakia, and Czechia to Bulgaria, delivering aid, supporting logistics, and sharing expertise across 12 countries. We spotlight three of these volunteers who joined the UN efforts thanks to the Special Voluntary Fund (SVF).
Before volunteering with the UN, Pavlo Tishkov crunched numbers at the National Bank of Ukraine. But when war broke out, spreadsheets weren’t enough—he wanted to make a real difference. He joined the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) as a Project Management Officer, supporting the reconstruction of war-damaged urban areas. In places like Irpin in the Kyiv region, Pavlo brought communities together through workshops—many still reeling from loss—to reimagine their public spaces.
“I saw neighbours who’d lost everything come together with ideas. We turned empty plots into green spaces and made streets safer,” shares Pavlo.
One of his biggest hurdles? Cutting through red tape to get things done fast. But the experience taught him the power of learning on the go—and the strength of communities determined to rebuild.
When thousands of refugees poured into neighbouring countries in early 2022, speed and coordination were critical. With over 15 years in finance and operations, Anastassia Nesterova was recruited as a UN Volunteer Budget and Finance Officer for the United Nations Children's Fund's (UNICEF) newly launched Refugee Response Office in Slovakia. Her focus—build the financial engine from scratch. She created budget templates, set up payment systems, and ensured emergency funds moved fast—so hygiene kits, school supplies, and protective gear reached families without delay.
“It wasn’t just numbers—it was making sure help got where it was needed,” says Anastassia. Her team spanned 17 countries. Different styles, one goal: get support to children and families—fast. The pace was relentless, “It reminded me why I joined the UN—to make systems work for people in crisis.”
Anton Shevchenko was recruited as a UN Volunteer Gender Advocate with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Kyiv. Although he was based in the country's capital, he frequently traveled to the south—particularly, Mykolaiv and Chernivtsi, to oversee emergency efforts and consider the needs of everyone—women, men, girls, and boys. His role was hands-on: training local authorities and NGOs on gender-based violence prevention, gathering data on the challenges women faced, and turning that insight into action. “In Mykolaiv, we met displaced women with no safe shelter,” Anton recalls. “We used that data to push for change.” The work was emotionally intense. Listening to stories of loss and survival wasn’t easy—but it fueled his drive.
“People shared painful stories. It was important to listen, but not only that—we had to respond with action. I’ve never felt a stronger link between policy and real lives,” shares Anton.
Almost three and a half years later, the war continues. UN Volunteers are still there. Over 620 onsite UN Volunteers and 260 plus Online Volunteers have brought their skills, time, and heart to communities in crisis. Their service shines a spotlight on what can be achieved through global solidarity—not just a concept, but action. And on World Refugee Day, this action is part of the UN's humanitarian efforts for more than 12.7 million people inside Ukraine who require aid, and the more than 6.8 million Ukrainian refugees worldwide.
For more information on the Special Voluntary Fund (SVF), which is currently supported by 13 countries, please click here.
