Reception and Integration of Refugees from Ukraine | Public event

Since the start of Russia’s war on Ukraine, millions of Ukrainians have entered the EU, with UNHCR reporting that 4 million Ukrainians have registered for temporary protection or similar national protection schemes in Europe. The activation of the Temporary Protection Directive on March 4th, 2022, established the framework for the reception and integration of Ukrainian refugees. The implementation of the Directive has been in many ways a success, allowing displaced Ukrainians to access employment, housing, education, and other social rights.

Eurodiaconia members have been at the forefront of this response, providing and adapting services to facilitate access to register for temporary protection, access the labour market and education, find accommodation, and access social, psychological, and other specialised support. However, as Europe enters a period of increased economic instability, inflation, and greater socioeconomic inequality, will these measures be sufficient to protect against the increasingly long-term needs of displaced Ukrainians?

In this event, we will discuss the implementation of the TPD and reflect on the ability of the EU and Member States to rise to the challenge of providing holistic integration services. We will listen to testimonies from Eurodiaconia members on the ground and experts by lived experience, with the aim of identifying best practices and current challenges. Finally, we will look at ways forward for social service providers, national governments, and EU institutions to work together to ensure that in the current economic crisis, that fleeing war and hardship from all national backgrounds are not left behind and are offered the necessary support to start their life in the EU.