Brussels – The European Commission has put forward a significant proposal to extend temporary protection for approximately 4.3 million Ukrainian refugees residing in Europe until March 2027. This initiative aims to create continuity for those displaced by the ongoing conflict while outlining a strategy for future support and the potential to facilitate safe returns to Ukraine.

Since the onset of the war in Ukraine, the European Union has implemented exceptional measures starting in March 2022, allowing Ukrainian refugees immediate access to rights such as residence, employment, social welfare, and healthcare across member states.

This measure has been renewed on an annual basis since its introduction.

President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the EU’s commitment to support those fleeing war while preparing conditions for a safe and dignified return.

The newly proposed extension includes a broader strategic framework aimed at addressing the long-term needs of Ukrainian refugees.

The European Commission is urging member states to coordinate efforts to facilitate the transition of refugees into more sustainable legal statuses, such as work or study permits, especially for those who have begun to integrate into their host communities.

To promote voluntary and safe returns, the proposal includes initiatives for exploratory visits to Ukraine, allowing refugees to assess conditions back home.

Support centres known as 'Unity Hubs' will be established in cities like Berlin, Prague, and Alicante, providing information and assistance to both refugees in Europe and those opting to return to Ukraine.

Henna Virkkunen, Executive Vice-President for Technology Sovereignty, Security and Democracy, stated that extending temporary protection signals European solidarity while also emphasizing the need for structured management of future phases regarding returns and integration.

Magnus Brunner, the Commissioner for Home Affairs, underscored the importance of offering refugees opportunities to contribute to the rebuilding of their home country once stability has been achieved.

The Commission's recommendations include better distribution of refugees across member states and the removal of double residence permits to enhance management of refugee flows and responses.

Voluntary return programmes are designed with additional focus on ensuring safety and dignity, particularly for vulnerable populations.

These 'Unity Hubs' will serve as vital resources, not only supporting refugees in Europe but also aiding their transition back to Ukraine.

The European Union plans to maintain robust communication and data-sharing mechanisms among member states and Ukraine, facilitating ongoing evaluation of refugee conditions and adjusting the response as necessary.

From the perspective of Ukraine, facilitating the return of its citizens is deemed both symbolic and economically vital.

Deputy Prime Minister Oleksandr Chernysev highlighted the necessity for structured return programs that would provide comprehensive support and information to returnees about opportunities available in Ukraine, ranging from education to employment.

He indicated that the country would require at least four million more people in the labor market to significantly boost its GDP in the decade following the resolution of the conflict.

The proposed extension now awaits formal approval from the Council, which will consider the guidelines for coordinated management concerning the protection and future of Ukrainian refugees in Europe.