Ukraine is experiencing an “unprecedented housing crisis” due to Russia’s full-scale invasion, according to the United Nations International Organization for Migration (IOM). A significant portion of the population is leaving the country, while those who remain are forced to spend more than half of their income on rent.
More than 236,000 buildings in Ukraine have been destroyed or damaged, and around 2.5 million housing units have become uninhabitable. This accounts for about 10% of the country’s housing stock. This housing shortage, coupled with an unregulated market, is putting significant pressure on housing availability, leaving 3.7 million internally displaced persons in a difficult situation. Two-thirds of them face problems paying for new housing, and many have exhausted all their savings.
The Ukrainian government is trying to find a solution to the housing problem. Recently, the Cabinet of Ministers simplified the procedure for certifying destroyed housing for compensation, and also allowed local communities to independently address the quick repair of damaged housing. Such steps may partially alleviate the crisis and provide support to those who have remained in Ukraine.
Independent experts believe that solving this issue could have a long-term impact on the country’s economic and social development. Resolving housing problems can stimulate investments in rebuilding and the return of migrants, contributing to the restoration of economic stability.
| Factor | Indicator |
|---|---|
| Damaged houses | 236,000+ |
| Damaged or destroyed housing units | 2.5 million |
| Internally displaced persons | 3.7 million |
| Population that left the country | 10.6 million |
