UNICEF Fact Sheet

About

Context

Throughout 2024, a steady number of Ukrainian refugees have been remaining in the country (60,000-65,000). The Humanitarian Programme for Ukrainian refugees of Bulgaria was extended until 4th March 2025, despite the initial plans for revising it and expanding it to include support for integration.

Key highlights

•  UNICEF and partners reached a total of 24 576 children and adolescents, and 6 699 caregivers with psycho-social support, recreational activities, incl. language learning, catch-up classes and services that facilitate the inclusion and adaptation of the Ukrainian refugees in the host society.
• Children and adolescents continued to struggle with their adaptation, thus the need for mental health and psycho-social support services (MHPSS) continues to be prominent, especially among adolescents.
• According to data from the Ministry of Education and Science, as of October 2024, a total of 6,043 children were enrolled in local kindergartens and schools, which marks a significant increase in the school enrolment rate of Ukrainian refugee children in comparison with 2023/2024 academic year, when 3,768 children were enrolled.
• UNICEF continued to integrate the emergency response programme with the development programming, focusing on system strengthening and capacity building for national and local partners to ensure provision of support and address the needs and challenges faced by Ukrainian refugee children.