IDP center reportage

Around 4 million people in Ukraine are IDP*

*Internally Displaced Persons

They come from cities devastated by war or occupied by Russia. Some have no home to return to, and all must rebuild their lives elsewhere.

Zaporizhzhia, as the nearest city in Ukraine-controlled territory, became a refuge for many displaced people from Melitopol.

Photograph from IDP center reportage

It is never easy…

But the humanitarian hub operates thanks to volunteers who help their fellow citizens settle into a new place, receive the necessary assistance, and process documents.

By coming together, people have managed to recreate at least a tiny piece of their native Melitopol here – a city once famous for its cherries.

Photograph from IDP center reportage

Even if you're a volunteer helping others who, like you, have fled your home city, you're still in danger if your family remains in the occupied territory.

So, you choose to stay invisible.

Photograph from IDP center reportage
Photograph from IDP center reportage

This is not a safe heaven

Photograph from IDP center reportage

Regular missile attacks continue on the city that has sheltered refugees.

Shattered windows and damaged ceilings are everywhere.

Photograph from IDP center reportage
Photograph from IDP center reportage
Photograph from IDP center reportage

People tell their stories through the post-it notes

I want to return to my parents, says one of them