CommunicationPublished on 26 June 2025

At the first line of humanitarian action: innovative insurance for volunteers

International organisations with professional staff are widely seen as the backbone of humanitarian aid, whereas much emergency support is actually provided by local people. These courageous first responders save lives, while exposing themselves to acute risks. They are active in Ukraine, too, where Switzerland has launched a highly innovative insurance scheme for people who volunteer as first responders.

Local people carry out much emergency humanitarian aid work, including in Ukraine. — © Relief Coordination Centre

We're the first ones exposed to potential risks when doing tasks like clearing rubble or reconstruction work after missile attacks. Insurance is absolutely vital.

An anonymous Ukrainian volunteer

The insurance makes me feel more secure when carrying out voluntary work. I now feel less vulnerable.

Hannah, a volunteer