Finland to support rehabilitation of people injured in war in Ukraine through WHO country programme

Finland to support rehabilitation of people injured in war in Ukraine through WHO country programme

Finnish Minister of Social Affairs and Health Wille Rydman attended a side event at the World Health Assembly on 19 May that focused on support for Ukraine's healthcare system amidst the war and on a model for evacuating those wounded in the war.

In connection with the Health Assembly in Geneva, Minister Wille Rydman met with Ukrainian Minister of Health Viktor Liashko. The meeting focused on support for Ukraine.

During the side event, Finland reaffirmed its continued political and material support for Ukraine and condemned Russia's attacks on healthcare facilities and civilians.

Finland also announced that it would provide new financial assistance for the rehabilitation of war victims and patients. This assistance will be channelled through the relevant WHO country office. Rehabilitation is one of the priorities of the WHO programme for Ukraine's health sector in 2026.

As a result of Russia's war of aggression, the number of people injured in Ukraine is considerable. During the first three years of the war, more than 390,000 war injuries were recorded. According to the Ministry of Health of Ukraine, over 250,000 patients need rehabilitation every year. Of these, 12,000 are new patients with spinal cord injuries.

Inquiries:

Nuutti Hyttinen, Special Adviser to Minister Rydman, tel. +358 295 163 403, [email protected]
Tita Korvenoja, Director of International Affairs, tel. +358 295 163 570, [email protected]
Outi Kuivasniemi, Senior Ministerial Adviser, International Affairs, tel. +358 295 163 117, [email protected]