A new project aimed at improving access to quality healthcare in Chernobyl-affected areas of Belarus was presented at the Sustainable Development Council. The initiative is implemented by UNDP in partnership with the Ministry of Health and funded by China’s Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund under the Global Development Initiative, marking a continued shift toward long-term, sustainable recovery in regions still affected by the legacy of the Chernobyl disaster.
In 2026, Belarus marks 40 years since the Chernobyl incident, with national and international efforts having gradually moved from emergency response to sustainable development focused on improving public health and well-being. Despite notable progress, affected communities continue to face serious health challenges, including higher rates of cancer and chronic illnesses, as well as a growing burden of noncommunicable diseases such as cardiovascular conditions, which remain a leading cause of mortality.
The new project, titled “Enhancement of Healthcare and its Accessibility for the Population of Chernobyl-affected Areas in Belarus,” is designed to strengthen healthcare services in the most impacted regions. A key component is the development of the Interregional Healthcare Centre at Mozyr City Hospital, which will serve as a hub for diagnostics, treatment, and consultations, enabling residents to access specialized care closer to their communities.
The initiative will benefit nearly 250,000 people across multiple districts, including Jelsk, Kalinkovichi, Narovlja, Petrikov, Hoiniki, and Mozyr. It combines infrastructure upgrades with system-wide improvements, including modernization of medical facilities, enhanced training for healthcare professionals, and the introduction of advanced medical and educational technologies.
In addition, the project will support public health awareness campaigns focused on prevention and early disease detection, contributing to better patient outcomes and more efficient healthcare delivery. It also aims to strengthen emergency response capacity and improve coordination across healthcare levels, ensuring faster treatment during critical situations and expanding screening and care for noncommunicable diseases.
The initiative highlights strong collaboration between government institutions, local authorities, healthcare providers, and international partners. It is positioned as a strategic investment in strengthening healthcare resilience in Chernobyl-affected areas, improving quality of life, and ensuring more equitable access to essential health services for all communities.
