Ukraine's Ombudsman Reveals How Many Citizens Live in Occupied Territories and Abroad

The Plight of Ukrainian Refugees

According to Главком: Dmytro Lubinets, Ukraine's Parliamentary Commissioner for Human Rights, has released updated figures on Ukrainians currently residing in temporarily occupied areas, Russia, and other countries. He urged European integration advocates to continue backing Ukraine and highlighted the significant role Ukrainian refugees play in Poland's economy.

According to Lubinets, between 3.5 and 5 million Ukrainians remain in occupied territories or in Russia. Data from Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs shows that over 8.6 million Ukrainians are now abroad, with 6.2 million living in European Union nations. Russia's full-scale aggression has forced nearly 5.7 million people to flee their homes, while the Ministry of Social Policy reports that more than 4.6 million citizens have become internally displaced persons.

Temporary Protection and Economic Contributions

As of April 2026, roughly 4.37 million Ukrainians were under temporary protection in EU countries. This EU mechanism, active since 2022, has been extended through March 4, 2027. Lubinets emphasized that supporting Ukraine during the war is critical for the security of all Europe:

“We appreciate European solidarity. But as long as the war continues, the safety of the entire continent remains at risk. That is why backing Ukraine is an investment in a Europe where law prevails over force!” - Dmytro Lubinets

He also pointed to the economic impact of Ukrainian refugees in Poland. In 2024, they contributed 2.7% of Poland's gross domestic product, and 69% of working-age Ukrainians in the country are employed. Since the war began, Ukrainians have registered over 100,000 businesses in Poland. Among Ukrainian refugees in Poland:

• 40% hold a higher education degree,
• only 12% work in their field of study.

Lubinets also noted that Ukraine is aware of 20,000 children forcibly deported by Russia. Before the war, over 700,000 children lived in the temporarily occupied territories. These facts, he argued, represent one of the most severe humanitarian crises that must remain on the international agenda:

“This is one of the greatest humanitarian challenges that cannot be left off the global agenda” - Dmytro Lubinets

Speaking at the international conference 'Democracy in Decline or in Crisis?' held in Athens, Lubinets continued to draw attention to the challenges facing Ukraine and its people, calling for decisive action from the international community.

This information underscores the critical humanitarian situation Ukraine faces as a result of Russian aggression. The growing number of Ukrainian refugees abroad highlights the war's lasting impact on society and the economy. At the same time, the support these refugees provide to economies like Poland's demonstrates the importance of international solidarity in addressing humanitarian crises and fostering regional stability.

As the situation for Ukrainian refugees evolves, recent changes in housing policies in Poland have raised concerns. Many individuals who have fled the conflict are now facing the loss of free accommodation, which could significantly impact their stability and integration. Understanding these developments is crucial for grasping the broader context of the challenges faced by displaced Ukrainians. For more details on the new housing regulations affecting Ukrainian refugees, see the recent updates on housing policies.