DEC: The Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal

John Ayling & Associates

On 3 March 2022, the Disasters Emergency Committee launched the Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal to raise funds to help those forced to flee their homes, and those in Ukraine unable to leave. The DEC brings together 15 leading UK aid charities to provide essential humanitarian support in times of crisis overseas. The Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal campaign set out to use the full range of communications channels – free and paid, offline and online – to raise as much money as possible, as quickly as possible.

Within four days £100 million had been raised by the British public, the equivalent of over £1 million an hour. The total hit £200 million within two weeks and by 21 April, the £300 million landmark was reached. Through fast media planning, creative production, and collaboration with the Rapid Response Network of broadcast and corporate partners, as well as major arts and sports organisations and public figures, the DEC delivered the charity’s largest fundraising campaign since 2004.