HIGHLIGHTS
GoU and self-proclaimed authorities in Donetsk and Luhansk renew ceasefire agreement; sporadic violence continues along the contact line
Winterization support needed ahead of declining temperatures; guidelines for relief agencies released
IDPs continue to experience challenges receiving certification necessary to access GoU benefits
KEY DEVELOPMENTS
On September 1, the Government of Ukraine (GoU) and self-proclaimed authorities in Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts renewed the ceasefire agreement of September 2015. The renewal followed three consecutive months of escalating violence that resulted in a significant increase in civilian casualties compared to prior months, according to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). Although the ceasefire had largely held as of late September, monitors from the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) continued to report small-scale violations.
Multiple years of conflict have damaged homes throughout government controlled areas (GCAs) and non-government controlled areas (NGCAs) along the contact line in eastern Ukraine. Meanwhile, displacement has forced many people into temporary accommodation or collective shelters. The onset of winter and accompanying decline in temperatures is likely to exacerbate humanitarian needs among individuals residing in inadequate shelter, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) reports. The UN agency recommends that relief organizations prioritize winterization efforts in the coming months.
Efforts by the GoU and response agencies have improved humanitarian conditions at checkpoints between GCAs and NGCAs; however, security concerns persist.
Many internally displaced persons (IDPs) remain unable to obtain IDP certification, limiting access to GoU benefits and services. Despite a multi-year advocacy effort by the humanitarian community, issues continued to impede certification as of late September.
In August, shelling damaged pipelines and disrupted water services in Donetsk and Luhansk, temporarily limiting access to safe drinking water for 950,000 people. In late September, an extensive water network temporarily halted operations, reducing water availability for at least 800,000 people in GCAs and NGCAs of Luhansk.