Kyiv, Ukraine, February 5, 2026 – Center for Civilians in Conflict released a new research report Evacuating Under Fire in Ukraine: Lessons on Promoting Protection during War-Induced Movements examining how evacuation processes are planned and implemented in Ukraine amid ongoing hostilities, and what is required to better protect civilians forced to flee their homes during active conflict.
Based on field research, interviews with local authorities, humanitarian actors, and affected communities, the report analyzes evacuation not only as a logistical operation, but as a critical protection measure that directly impacts civilian safety, dignity, and trust in authorities.
The findings highlight persistent challenges, including fragmented coordination, inconsistent communication with civilians, limited consideration of protection risks during movement, and gaps in support for those unable or unwilling to evacuate. At the same time, the report documents practical approaches and local-level solutions that have helped reduce harm and improve civilian outcomes in high-risk environments.
“One of the key lessons from this research is that communities in Ukraine were often forced to plan and implement evacuations without prior experience. Despite this, many developed practical, locally driven solutions under extreme pressure. These lessons are highly relevant beyond Ukraine. They show that countries facing potential future conflicts should invest in preparedness early including clear evacuation plans, defined responsibilities, and communication with civilians before evacuation becomes an urgent necessity”, — said Khrystyna Kozak, researcher CIVIC Ukraine.
CIVIC recommends that government authorities, humanitarian actors, and international partners strengthen coordination, systematically integrate protection considerations into evacuation planning, and ensure that civilian voices meaningfully inform decision-making processes.
Read the full report in English here and in Ukrainian here.
For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:
Global CIVIC Communications: [email protected]
In Kyiv: Communications Officer, Liudmyla Gitsevych, +380967377810 , [email protected]
Spokespersons are available in English and Ukrainian
CIVIC in Ukraine
CIVIC has been present in Ukraine since 2017, conducting research and on-the-ground activities assisting the Ukrainian government and the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) in the development and implementation of tools, training, and policies on protection of civilians. CIVIC in Ukraine is also supporting local communities in the areas at risk of escalation of hostilities and in newly liberated areas by strengthening their preparedness and resilience to protection threats, building effective coordination systems with the military, local authorities and communities, and amplifying civilians’ voice through research and advocacy.
