The war in Ukraine response: Humanitarianism in practice

Drones Without Borders launched its crisis response in Ukraine immediately following the start of the war in 2022. While upholding all aspects of the core tenants of humanitarianism, we join other organisations in highlighting that we cannot and will not ignore the blatant disregard of the Russian Federation for international humanitarian law, as demonstrated to us first-hand in Ukraine.

Our assistance and work remains entirely based on the humanitarian principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, and independence. In practice, this means that all of our humanitarian aid is provided solely on the basis of need, without discrimination. We also maintain our independence, and while present and accredited to work in Ukraine, are not party to the conflict.

These humanitarian principals, which we hold dear to us, should never be used to protect violations of international humanitarian law. We therefore condemn the war crimes that are being catalogued in Ukraine that are being committed by the Russian Federation and its proxy forces.