In 2023, the harsh realities of conflict, displacement, natural disaster, and extreme hunger impacted the lives of millions of people worldwide. As World Vision responded, we witnessed moments of both hardship and hope. See the incredible images of resilience, determination, and even joy that World Vision’s communicators were able to capture in this extraordinary year.
News & Stories
Eastern Europe
Prayers
Peace on earth: Pray for people in conflict zones
In times of emergencies and disasters, including the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, earthquakes in Afghanistan, and the war in Ukraine, children bear the heaviest burden. Join us in praying for places with critical humanitarian needs, where daily struggles for basic necessities affect children, families, and communities.
From the Field
Explore World Vision’s disaster responses
Armed conflict, natural disasters, and other emergencies can alter children’s lives drastically. When disaster strikes, World Vision’s disaster response helps safeguard children’s well-being by providing vital resources such as food, clean water, and shelter, as well as protection against trafficking and other forms of exploitation. With a presence in nearly 100 countries, we’re able to respond swiftly to global humanitarian emergencies, even in the most challenging environments — and we stay after immediate needs have been met to equip communities as they rebuild. Explore our interactive map showing some of the ways our staff around the world are supporting children affected by global crises.
From the Field
How’d they do that: DIY Christmas crafts from around the world
There’s something special about handmade crafts at Christmastime. So we asked some of the children and families we help around the world to share their favorite Christmas crafts with you! Learn how to make DIY Christmas crafts from Armenia, Cambodia, the Dominican Republic, Lesotho, and the Philippines.
From the Field
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.
From the Field
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.
From the Field
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.
From the Field
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.
From the Field
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.
From the Field
Voices of Ukraine: Praying through the crisis
Ukrainian refugees and families displaced in the war-torn country share moments of their lives. Join us in praying through their stories as families continue to cope every day and look for hope during this conflict.