The Glückskette, a Swiss fundraising organization, is renewing its appeal for donations to support humanitarian efforts in Ukraine as the conflict enters its third year. The organization has already collected 137.3 million Swiss francs in donations since the start of the war in February 2022, making it the second-largest fundraising campaign in its over 75-year history.
The renewed call for solidarity comes as international financial aid for Ukraine is reportedly decreasing, exacerbating an already critical humanitarian situation. Millions of people are facing a “beispiellose humanitäre Krise” (unprecedented humanitarian crisis), according to the Glückskette. The organization stated that it has already allocated 80 percent of the funds received since 2022 to support those affected by the war.
Initially, the focus of aid was on providing immediate necessities – food, medical care, and shelter – for those displaced by the fighting. Since the beginning of the conflict, the Glückskette has financed 134 projects, assisting nearly 4.9 million people. These projects are being implemented in Ukraine itself, as well as in neighboring countries including Poland, Romania, Moldova, Hungary, and within Switzerland, supporting refugees who have sought safety there.
Miren Bengoa, Director of Glückskette, recently returned from Ukraine and emphasized the continued necessitate for support. “I just returned from Ukraine, where I could observe the direct impact of our aid and the great courage of the staff of the humanitarian organizations who have been working for the affected people for three years,” Bengoa said. “International solidarity gives endangered people a breather and hope. The challenge today is to be able to continue the support permanently.”
The Glückskette’s fundraising total of over 130 million francs, reported in February 2025, surpassed initial expectations, though it remains below the 228 million francs raised following the 2004 tsunami. The organization is working with partner organizations to ensure aid reaches those most in need, with a focus on rebuilding homes damaged during the conflict.
Donations can be made online at www.glueckskette.ch or via bank transfer to Postkonto 10-15000-6, with the reference “Krise in der Ukraine.”
