Highlights
There was a significant increase in ceasefire violations during February 2016 compared to the previous month, as well as a corresponding increase in civilian casualties: 10 people were killed and 21 (including two children) were injured.
On 3 February, the deteriorating situation led to the closure of several checkpoints between government and non-government-controlled areas of eastern Ukraine. UN agencies issued a joint press release calling for the checkpoints to be reopened, citing the serious impact on peoples’ freedom of movement.
The Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP) 2016 was launched on 17 February. Humanitarian organizations are calling for US$298 million to enable them to continue providing the necessary support and assistance to the 2.5 million people who are most in need.
The third round of the nationwide polio vaccination campaign, launched on 25 January, was extended until 29 February due to the closure of many schools and other institutions. This was prompted by an outbreak of seasonal influenza, which has caused over 400 deaths. Initial reports point to an estimated coverage rate of 80.3 per cent, a big improvement on previous rounds.
UNICEF launched the rehabilitation of 12 schools in Myronivka, Dzerzhynsk and Svitlodarsk, in Donetsk oblast near to the contact line, with the support of the Canadian Government. The rehabilitation of an additional 35 schools funded by the Japanese Government, has also started. These projects will help provide safe learning environments for thousands of children.