The Response of European Countries to the Crisis of Forced Migration from Ukraine

Abstract

The article is devoted to the analysis of the response of European countries to the crisis of forced migration from Ukraine, which arose as a result of the full-scale military aggression by the russian federation in 2022. Based on the analysis of statistical data, official EU decisions, and national legislative acts, the article highlights the scale of population displacement from Ukraine and the specifics of their settlement in EU countries, particularly in Poland, Czechia, Germany, and Italy.

The paper examines the legal protection mechanisms available to forced migrants, including the Temporary Protection Directive 2001/55/EC, specific national legislative initiatives, and social support programs. Special attention is given to the analysis of the social integration of Ukrainian displaced persons, particularly in the areas of employment, housing, access to education, and healthcare. It is noted that as the integration processes deepen, there is a gradual reduction in the volume of social assistance, indicating a shift from emergency measures to long-term integration strategies.

The article outlines the main challenges faced by European countries in receiving Ukrainian refugees: language barriers, the psychological condition of displaced persons, the shortage of resources for children's education, and the organization of care for unaccompanied minors. Emphasis is placed on the importance of safeguarding children's right to education in accordance with international standards and improving the system of psychosocial support services. Furthermore, based on the results of an independent survey of Ukrainian forced migrants in EU countries, the main types of support received were identified: housing assistance, financial aid, food and humanitarian support, as well as psychological and educational services. In conclusion, it is emphasized that although European countries have successfully adapted their policies to the humanitarian crisis, the challenges of further integration of Ukrainian migrants remain pressing.