Tens of thousands of people cross the five operating EECPs every day.This report is based on the results of a survey conducted by the Right to Protection CF (R2P) at the five entry-exit checkpoints (EECPs) to enter the non-government controlled area (NGCA) and administered on a regular basis since June 2017. The survey is a part of the monitoring of violations of rights of conflict-affected populations within the framework of the project «Advocacy, Protection and Legal Assistance to the Internally Displaced Population of Ukraine» implemented by R2P with the support of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The purpose of the survey is to explore reasons and concerns of those travelling from the NGCA to the government-controlled area (GCA), as well as conditions and risks associated with crossing the line of contact through EECPs. The information collected in the survey helps identify needs, gaps and trends, and provides an evidentiary basis for advocacy efforts.

April data:

▪ Marinka EECP was closed for five days due to the shooting on April 5. Red alert mode was imposed, all civilians were evacuated. One SBGS serviceman was wounded. Hnutove EECP was closed due to the reconstruction from April 5 to 8. As the two EECPs did not operate, lines at Maiorske and Novotroitske had increased.

▪ On April 23 during the road repair works an unexploded mine was found near PUI tent at Maiorske EECP. The EECP continued its operation, the mine was isolated and then removed from the EECP.

▪ Due to the temperature increase and stuffiness under the sheds, people at Stanytsia Luhanska EECP were fainting (up to 20 persons per week).

▪ By the end of the month monitors reported about the lack of potable water at Stanytsia Luhanska as the water tanks were not installed yet. Monitors at Marinka EECP noted the lack of technical water: sometimes the water pump cannot cope with the high demand.

▪ SBGS at Stanytsia Luhanska continues to restrict the movement of people who provide transportation between the GCA and NGCA checkpoints for persons with impaired mobility for a fee. Due to the restrictions these people have to walk a great distance themselves.

By observing the crossing processes and studying opinions of persons crossing the line of contact, R2P contributes to monitoring the protection environment and respect for civilians’ rights in the crossing process.

Download: EECP Report – April 2019