Older people’s stories

A gallery capturing the voices of older Ukrainians after four years of war. Explore personal stories of displacement and survival from a generation that now comprises a quarter of the nation’s population, yet remains largely overlooked.

Displaced by war, Hussein now lives in Burj Hammoud with his family. Struggling with poor health and poverty, his only wish is for his family’s happiness and to one day return home.

Three years into the full-scale war, discover the stories of older Ukrainians who are not just surviving but adapting and thriving in the face of crisis.

At 72, Mohammad chose to stay in his home during the war in Lebanon, facing rockets and isolation. His story highlights the challenges older people face in crises.

Haniya, 84, recalls the day war shattered her life. Injured family members, displacement to a shelter, and separation from loved ones left her longing for her village.

Abu Mohammed and his family fled their home in Gaza, only to lose everything in a strike on their temporary shelter. Abu Mohammed remains focused on his family’s survival.

Sabah, 57, recounts fleeing airstrikes in South Lebanon and facing hardship in Beirut. Her story highlights the urgent need for aid for displaced older people.

Moussa, 75, and his wife Samira, 72, share their struggle after fleeing war in South Lebanon, holding onto hope amid harsh conditions.

Ridha has been forced to move more than 15 times in the past 12 months. "Some days, we moved twice from one house to another because of the intense shelling. We walked for hours, searching for safety," she recalls.

Discover the story of an older woman from Gaza who shares her experiences of survival amidst war.

Explore the enduring strength of Ukraine's older generation amidst two years of war.

74-year-old Andrii shares his story of living in a Ukrainian frontline village