European Commission proposes way forward for Ukrainian refugees in the EU

On 4 June, the European Commission established a common way forward for the future of Ukrainian refugees in the EU, ensuring stability and paving the way for a transition out of temporary protection once the necessary conditions are met.

Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said: “Since 2022 we have provided protection for those fleeing Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, and we continue to do so.” With Russia continuing its illegal attacks on Ukraine, the Commission is proposing to prolong the temporary protection for people fleeing Russia’s aggression for an additional year until 4 March 2027, providing legal certainty to displaced people. This proposal will also reassure Member States that the same standards of protection apply across the EU and will notify displaced Ukrainians that applying for international protection is unnecessary.

The Commission is also proposing to Member States toprepare for a coordinated transition out of temporary protectionby way of a proposal to be adopted by the Council. The proposed measures address the needs of those residing in the EU as well as the need for Ukraine to rebuild the country, including supporting safe reintegration.

The Council Recommendation includes the following measures: 

• To promote and facilitate the transition of those enjoying temporary protection into national or EU legal statuses that better reflect their lives once integrated in the host country. This may involve issuing residence permits based on employment, education, or a national long-term resident status. 
• Paving the way for a gradual return and reintegration in Ukraine, while considering the country’s needs and capacity. This may be ensured through exploratory visits to Ukraine and by the establishment of voluntary return programmes in coordination with Ukrainian authorities when temporary protection ends. 
• Appointing a Special Envoy for Ukrainians in the EU and supporting the creation of Unity Hubs in Member States to offer better information to both people integrating in host countries and those reintegrating in Ukraine about options available to them. 
• Ensuring the exchange of information between Member States and Ukraine through the Solidarity Platform and by updating data in the Temporary Protection Registration Platform. 

Since the start of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, over 4.3 million displaced people from Ukraine have found safety, shelter and opportunities across the EU due to the solidarity and support of Member States, and the activation of the Temporary Protection Directive, granting refugees temporary protection across the European Union: this includes residency rights, access to the labour market, access to housing, social welfare assistance, medical or other assistance, and means of subsistence.

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Press release