The security situation remains volatile in many parts of Ukraine. More than four years into the full-scale war, the country’s healthcare system continues to face immense pressure.

For women and girls, especially in frontline areas, access to life-saving sexual and reproductive health services, gynaecological care, support for survivors of gender-based violence, and essential ante- and postnatal care has been disrupted. Rates of premature births and required caesarean sections have reportedly increased.

To address these challenges, UNOPS and UNFPA are working together to strengthen access to safe and uninterrupted maternal, sexual and reproductive healthcare services in Kharkiv, with funding from the government of Ireland.

As part of the project, UNOPS will renovate and equip the existing basements of two maternity hospitals, enabling healthcare workers to continue providing essential services during attacks and air raids.

The underground units will support emergency treatment and medical care, including assistance during pregnancy complications, childbirth, the postpartum period for both mother and baby, surgical interventions and rehabilitation services. The spaces also serve as basic shelter facilities for patients and hospital staff.

"No woman should be forced to give birth in unsafe conditions because of shelling, blackouts or damaged health infrastructure," said Jacqueline Mahon, UNFPA Representative to Ukraine. "In Kharkiv, health workers continue delivering care under extraordinary pressure. These bunkerized facilities help ensure that women and newborns can continue receiving safe, quality care, even as attacks intensify.”