The United Nations refugee agency has warned that approximately nine million displaced people in Ukraine, Syria, Lebanon, and Afghanistan will require additional assistance to cope with the approaching winter season. Announcing a new fundraising appeal on Friday, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) aims to secure at least $50 million to support vulnerable refugees, surpassing last year’s target by $3 million.

Dominique Hyde, UNHCR’s director of external relations, highlighted the growing challenges facing displaced populations as colder months approach in the northern hemisphere. “Resources are scarce and costs are spiralling just as winter looms,” Hyde said. She emphasized the urgency of the appeal given the escalating needs among refugees struggling to access adequate protection from the cold.

The agency’s winter support efforts focus on addressing shortages of essential supplies, including heating fuel and cooking materials. These deficits significantly impact millions in the four countries, where prolonged conflicts and instability have severely undermined living conditions.

In Ukraine, ongoing conflict in the eastern regions has displaced large numbers of people, many of whom face deteriorating shelter and limited access to electricity and heating as temperatures drop. Syria continues to host millions of internally displaced individuals and refugees in neighboring countries, including Lebanon, where economic crises compound hardships for vulnerable communities.

Afghanistan also remains a critical concern, with a combination of conflict, economic decline, and harsh winter conditions leaving many in need of urgent humanitarian assistance.

The UNHCR’s appeal seeks to mobilize international support to provide essential winter supplies, including warm clothing, blankets, shelter materials, and heating fuel, to mitigate the impact of cold weather on displaced families. The agency called on governments, donors, and partners to meet the funding target to prevent further suffering among these at-risk populations as winter sets in.