Ukraine shows essential workers keep daily life running during crises

People who keep everyday services running are crucial during a prolonged crisis, Finland’s National Emergency Supply Agency says in a report drawing lessons from Ukraine, Yle reported.

The report, published on Tuesday, says Russia’s military actions increasingly target civilian facilities important to security of supply, as well as military targets. It also highlights the role of markets and businesses in a crisis.

Keeping work, education, trade and services operating as normally as possible supports the economy, strengthens people’s ability to function and builds confidence in the future, the report says.

That requires protecting not only important facilities but also the people who operate critical functions. They need time to sleep, access to food and water, and the ability to work without worrying about the safety and wellbeing of their loved ones.

People living under the threat of repeated air strikes also need more than air-raid alerts. They need information that helps them understand the situation from their own perspective.