The cities of Bucha and Irpin in Ukraine have emerged from the destruction caused by Russian military occupation.
The group traveled via helicopter from the cargo airport in Hostomel, located north of Bucha. They then proceeded by tank on Vokzalna Street, crossing the railway and heading towards the reported killings of civilians documented in the UN Monitoring Mission’s report on Ukraine. The report states that Russian military personnel frequently engaged in summary executions at checkpoints, where possession of a phone, military uniform, or proof of past military service could result in deadly consequences.
In September 2022, Karim Khan, the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, addressed the UN Security Council regarding the repercussions of the occupation. During his visit to Bucha, he witnessed the tragic sight of bodies concealed behind a building at the Church of St. Andrew. He emphasized that this was not a fabricated scenario, as he also witnessed the devastating effects of the occupation in Borodyanka, with destroyed schools and houses. According to estimates, numerous buildings in Bucha were damaged, with over 100 being completely destroyed.
Today in Bucha, Vokzalnaya Street has been fully restored after experiencing significant damage to the private housing sector.
Reviving Bucha
Currently, approximately two years have passed since the occupation and there are notable indications of a resurgence. The United Nations has closely collaborated with the region’s governing bodies, the national government, and global allies to facilitate the city’s speedy recovery. “In the Nova Bucha neighborhood, everything was decimated during the occupation. However, it has now been almost entirely reconstructed,” stated Ms. Skoryk-Shkarivska.
The damaged apartment buildings are undergoing thorough repairs, including roof replacement, installation of thermal insulation, and improvement of the facade to improve heat retention. It is difficult to believe that just two years ago, this area was filled with heavy Russian military equipment and many houses were destroyed or damaged by fire,” she stated.
At times, I hear discussions regarding the necessity of reconstruction,” she stated. “However, the Kyiv region is not facing the same level of intense Russian attacks as other regions, such as the border areas of Kharkiv. People are returning and need to resume their lives and work. The city is thriving, with numerous businesses and new restaurants. A thriving city must be rebuilt, which will attract even more people. The western regions of Ukraine, where many initially sought refuge, are now overcrowded and lack opportunities for citizens. In Kyiv, there is ample employment and potential for growth.”
A school in Irpin, upgraded by UNICEF, is now being used as a shelter.
International partners, including UN agencies, are aiding in the renovation of homes and providing financial support for this project. They are also involved in removing debris and landmines in the Kyiv region, specifically in Bucha. UNICEF has fully restored a school in Irpin, which was heavily affected by conflict in 2022. It is now considered one of the most advanced educational facilities in the city, featuring a well-equipped shelter and an inclusive environment.
“When Bucha and Irpin in the Kyiv region were once again under government control, UNICEF launched rehabilitation efforts and offered comprehensive assistance,” stated Munir Mammadzadeh, the UNICEF Representative in Ukraine.
Over 5,000 children in Bucha and Irpin are currently enrolled in reconstructed schools. The Irpin school, which underwent 70% destruction, was reconstructed with funding from the European Union and is now fully operational. It provides full-time education to 1,700 students, including those displaced by internal conflicts, according to the speaker.
According to the speaker, the conflict has resulted in a loss of two years of school, time with friends, and communication with family for numerous children, both inside and outside of Ukraine. Not only has it affected their education, but it has also significantly impacted their mental well-being, making it crucial to reduce the negative effects on their learning. The speaker emphasized the importance of kindergarten teachers who have been trained to offer emotional and psychological support to children during this challenging time.
Source: news.un.org
