As the war in Ukraine continues to cause devastation and displacement, over 8.2 million refugees, mostly women and children, have sought safety across Europe and beyond. Now, the collapse of the Kakhovka dam in the country’s southern region has worsened the situation, leading to widespread flooding, abandoned homes, a lack of clean water , danger from displaced explosives, and the potential for waterborne diseases to spread. Learn more about the emergency and what World Vision is doing to help people affected by the crisis.
News & Stories
Eastern Europe
What is a refugee?
The global population of refugees has surpassed 34 million, and their needs have never been greater, not only for the basic necessities of life, but also for hope and opportunities to be self-sufficient. Explore the challenges faced by refugees and find out more about the global refugee crisis.
Coronavirus: Facts, FAQs, and how to help
The coronavirus pandemic and its respiratory disease, COVID-19, has profoundly and widely impacted the world since it emerged in late 2019. Learn more about the ongoing pandemic and how World Vision has responded worldwide.
Global poverty: Facts, FAQs, and how to help
Find answers to your questions about global poverty here, including eye-opening facts and statistics. Stay up-to-date with our latest progress toward ending extreme poverty worldwide, and learn how you can help.
In the kitchen: Moldovan plăcintă recipe
Plăcintă — a pastry stuffed with savory or sweet fillings — offers a tasty comfort-food treat in countries throughout Eastern Europe. In Moldova, whole restaurants are devoted to this delicious popular dish.
Global water crisis: Facts, FAQs, and how to help
There’s nothing more essential than access to clean water, yet a global water crisis means people are struggling to get the quantity and quality of water they need. As the leading nongovernmental provider of clean water in the developing world, World Vision plans to reach 50 million people with clean water by 2030.
Celebrating Easter in a time of war
Orthodox Easter celebrations across Eastern Europe involve the passing of the holy fire from priest to congregation. Then people arrive to receive blessings on baskets of food, which they eat from to break their Lenten fast. In 2022, those ceremonies took on even more significance as churches and Moldovans welcomed refugees from Ukraine.
5 essential lessons we’ve learned responding to earthquakes
World Vision’s global director for humanitarian operations, Isabel Gomes, shares insight on earthquake response from her 25 years in humanitarian work.
What you need to know about the global water crisis in photos and videos
The global water crisis affects millions of people worldwide, with 771 million people lacking access to clean water. Learn more as we break this topic down for you — in photos and videos.
War in Ukraine: Displacement and refuge
As the war in Ukraine marks its first year, World Vision continues to bring our global expertise in partnering to support children and their families impacted by the conflict.