The Director General of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Amy Pope,is joining world leaders in Rome on 10-11 July for the annual Ukraine Recovery Conference, calling for renewed global solidarity to support Ukraine's long-term recovery and reconstruction efforts.
Now in the fourth year of Russia's full-scale war, Ukraine continues to grapple with one of the largest displacement crises in Europe. Nearly four million people remain internally displaced, while another five million Ukrainian refugees continue to reside in countries across Europe.
Despite ongoing insecurity and economic pressure, millions have begun returning. IOM data shows that more than four million people have returned to their communities of origin, including over a million who came back from abroad - often with little or no support.
"Displacement on this scale imposes numerous challenges for Ukraine and its people," DG Pope said. "Recovery must begin with a focus on the people in need - connecting them to services and restoring their livelihoods, so it becomes more than just returning home, but about regaining their place in society."
Throughout the crisis, IOM has remained a key partner in Ukraine, supporting the reintegration of internally displaced persons, strengthening protection of people on the move, and engaging diaspora communities to help shape practical, community-led solutions that support long-term recovery.
"Recovery is not only about rebuilding cities and infrastructure - it's about restoring dignity, stability, and opportunity for Ukrainians affected by this war," said First Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine Yulia Svyrydenko. "IOM has been an important partner in this effort, standing with us, not just in crisis but throughout recovery."
On the sidelines of the Conference, IOM and Ukraine's Ministry of National Unity co-hosted a dedicated event to enhance cooperation with the more than 20 million Ukrainians living abroad and encourage their involvement in the country's recovery efforts.
"We must make it possible for internally displaced persons and Ukrainians living abroad to be able return safely and with dignity," added DG Pope. "IOM is honored to support the Government of Ukraine and partners in these efforts, by investing in local leadership and area-based approaches to make reintegration sustainable."
