**Reforming Ukraine’s Humanitarian Aid System**
The international community has sent over $11 billion in humanitarian aid to Ukraine since Russia’s invasion in 2022. However, despite this support, the key players in humanitarian aid – state donors, UN agencies, and INGOs – have failed to reform a broken system.
**A Broken System**
The latest “Annual Localization Survey” conducted by Refugees International and East SoS found that UN agencies and INGOs still dominate funding, leadership, and policy influence. Despite research showing that locally led humanitarian responses are more cost-effective and efficient, international organizations continue to hold the majority of power.
**Direct Funding to Local Groups**
The survey found that less than 1% of the $11 billion in humanitarian aid sent between 2022 and 2024 went directly to Ukrainian NGOs. Donors should increase their support for Ukrainian responders by decisively shifting power and resources to them in 2025.
**Addressing Perception of Corruption**
The perception of corruption risks among Ukrainian NGOs no longer stands up to scrutiny. Across 32 donors, INGOs, and UN agencies surveyed, not a single respondent pointed to any substantial, confirmed cases of corruption by Ukrainian partners.
**A Call for Reform**
The largest donors to the Ukraine response have an opportunity to embrace this improved approach, but their willingness to do so remains unclear. European Union states, which contribute the most humanitarian aid to Ukraine, can do much more to get funding flowing directly to Ukrainians.
**Conclusion**
Ukrainian humanitarian NGOs are rapidly building coordination and oversight mechanisms, solidarity networks, and operational partnerships to take over as aid budgets shrink and international actors reduce their role. Donors should seize this moment and make lasting changes not only in Ukraine but for many other humanitarian emergencies around the world.