Three Years of Conflict: Jesuits Accompany Over 127,000 Refugees

Europe’s largest humanitarian crisis since World War II continues, with over 8.8 million people—or nearly one in three Ukrainians— fleeing their homes, leaving behind memories and hopes for the future.

As Ukraine marks three years of conflict, Jesuit Mission Australia alongside the Xavier Network, have been supporting project partner Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) Europe to help provide life-saving support to over 127,000 refugees.

Since the war began, Jesuit organisations have delivered over 612,000 essential services—ranging from emergency aid and shelter to education and psychosocial support.

“As another grim milestone passes and some decision-makers waver in their support, our commitment to accompanying those forcibly displaced remains as steady as the first day," said Fr Alberto Ares SJ, Regional Director of JRS Europe and project partner of Jesuit Mission Australia.

“Even in a context marked by pain and uncertainty, we see daily examples of solidarity and integration—people extending a helping hand and walking together."

JRS Europe has expanded their response to adapt to the evolving needs of displaced people. Initially focused on emergency aid, the coordinated programmatic response now primarily supports long-term integration—providing education, psychological support, legal assistance, and employment opportunities.

Thanks to JRS, just a few kilometres from their home in Ukraine, 10-year-old Nadja and her grandmother Natalia (62) have found refuge in a shelter on the outskirts of a small village in eastern Moldova.

“Nadja and I were shopping when we heard the first explosions. The child was so frightened that all she wanted was to leave,” said Natalia.

In a moment of urgency, Nadja’s parents made the painful decision to send their daughter and Natalia to safety.

“My daughter told me: ‘Go to Moldova; you'll be safe there. We'll stay here to defend our home, and you'll come back when it's all over.’”

The Jesuit network’s support extends across Ukraine, neighbouring countries, and further afield—reaching as far as Portugal and Spain.

“Even in the darkest times, hope persists. We see it in every refugee who finds a new home, a new job, a new future – made possible by the generosity of those Australian supporters who have stood alongside the Ukrainians during this time,” said Helen Forde, CEO of Jesuit Mission Australia

Jesuit Mission Australia stands in solidarity with families like Natalia’s. Donate to the Emergency Action Fund below to support refugees of the Ukraine crisis and beyond.