Ukrainian Displacement in Europe, One Year Later

The war in Ukraine reached its one-year milestone on February 24, 2023. While the fallout of the Russian invasion, whether geopolitical, economic, energy- or food-related, left few countries untouched, the European Union had to gear up for the prolonged stay of nearly 5 million displaced Ukrainians and face the prospect of new arrivals amid unrelenting violence. This presented policymakers with the multi-pronged challenge of integrating Ukrainian refugees into housing, education, and labour markets while also preparing for the eventual rebuilding of Ukraine and return of millions of its citizens.

Nearly one year into the massive displacement and the relief effort, this MPI Europe webinar examined what was done to foster the integration of those staying long(er) in host societies, to organize first reception services for any additional newcomers, and to prepare the return of those set on going home and rebuilding Ukraine. Speakers explored responses ranging from swift implementation of the Temporary Protection Directive to improvements in labour market integration, as well as efforts to facilitate social and economic reintegration for those intent on returning. The speakers also considered how the tension between reception, integration, and return (to rebuild) has materialized in the context of the Ukrainian response, and the challenges that were ahead.

Speakers discussed a range of approaches that might serve the interests of displaced Ukrainians, host societies, and Ukraine alike. This webinar examined whether the emerging practices were adequate.

Speakers:

Hanne Beirens, Director, MPI Europe

Pavla Novotná, Director General, Department of Asylum and Migration Policy, Ministry of Interior, Czechia

Esther Pozo-Vera, Head of Asylum Unit, Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs, European Commission