Amidst the ongoing military conflict, Ukraine's Ministry of Restoration, Infrastructure, and Transport has initiated a large-scale information campaign aimed at assisting residents of frontline areas. As reported by RBC-Ukraine, authorities have developed a detailed step-by-step guide for those planning to evacuate. This initiative is a response to sociological research data revealing a critical issue: fear of the unknown has become the primary barrier to saving lives.
The psychology of evacuation: why people remain under fire
The key factor deterring the population from leaving dangerous zones is not a lack of transport or logistical routes, but a deep psychological barrier. Studies conducted in frontline communities have shown shocking statistics: about 60% of residents are afraid to go "nowhere," fearing they will be left without means of subsistence and their usual way of life. Furthermore, more than 30% of people who have already waited for transport refuse to leave at the last moment because they do not understand the further route and prospects for settling in a new place. Authorities admit that fear of the unknown often outweighs the instinct for self-preservation.
Information campaign: «It will be difficult, but in the end everything will be fine»
To overcome this barrier, a campaign has been launched under the slogan «It will be difficult, but in the end everything will be fine». It is designed not just to inform, but to reduce the level of anxiety among citizens. Deputy Minister of Restoration, Infrastructure, and Transport, Oleksiy Ryabykin, emphasized that the main goal of the initiative is to give people confidence that they will not be left alone. «We want the fear of the unknown to no longer be a reason to stay under threat. Our goal is for everyone who makes this decision to know: they will not be left alone», the official stated. The guide is intended to be a navigator that step-by-step explains where to go, how to get help, and where to stop.
Communication channels and statistics of appeals
To implement the evacuation and consultation program, a multi-channel communication system is in operation. Citizens can find out details or submit an application via the government hotline 1548, the web portal 1548.gov.ua, as well as Viber, WhatsApp, and Telegram messengers (number +380 96 078 8433). A specialized Telegram bot @MinRe1548_bot is also available. Statistics from the hotline operator demonstrate a huge volume of work: since 2022, more than 11,000 inquiries specifically regarding departure from dangerous territories have been processed. Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, the line has received a total of 1.4 million calls, confirming the high level of public need for assistance.
Mandatory evacuation and safety rules
Alongside the information work, safety measures are being tightened in a number of regions. In particular, in the Kherson region, the list of settlements where mandatory evacuation of the population has been declared due to constant Russian shelling has been expanded. In addition, the Railway Administration (UZ) reminded people of the rules of conduct during martial law. Train conductors are obliged to warn passengers about the threat of enemy attacks. In case of danger, passengers must strictly follow the instructions of the staff to ensure their own safety and the safety of others.
