Ella Libanova, director of the Institute of Demography and Social Studies named after M.V. Ptukha, explained that most Ukrainian refugees do not intend to return to Ukraine after the war ends. Usually, these people left for abroad with their families, have seriously ill relatives, or have settled in their new locations.
One of the main reasons for their refusal to return is the high standard and quality of life in the European Union countries. She emphasized that recently, life in Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, and Denmark is better than in Ukraine, which complicates their return home.
The expert also drew attention to the issue of access to medical care. Seriously ill individuals, especially cancer patients, can receive free treatment abroad through insurance systems, whereas in Ukraine such services are often paid. Furthermore, having relatives and property in the country also affects the decision to return.
Libanova also emphasized the importance of maintaining connections between Ukrainians and their homeland and preserving Ukrainian identity. Already in the first weeks of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the number of returning refugees began to increase.
EU extends temporary protection regime for Ukrainians
The EU Council supported the European Commission's proposal to extend the temporary protection regime for Ukrainians until March 4, 2027. This concerns more than 4 million Ukrainians who have found refuge in EU countries. The EU is also discussing a strategy for the phased return of Ukrainians home.
Ukrainian refugees abroad have several reasons making their return home difficult. The high standard of living in EU countries, the accessibility of medical care, and the presence of relatives and properties abroad are the main factors influencing their decisions. The extension of the temporary protection regime for Ukrainians in the EU until 2027 shows the need for assistance to this category of people and discussions on ways to return them to Ukraine in phases.