The EU Commission's Plan for Ukrainian Refugees: Extending Temporary Protected Status and Preparing for Return
EU Commission to extend protection to Ukrainian refugees, anticipating resolution by 2027.
Hang tight, Ukrainian refugees in the EU! The EU Commission has proposed extending your protected status for another year, all the way until March 2027, in light of the ongoing conflict in your homeland.
Although the extended status provides relative ease of access to the labor market and social benefits through the EU Directive on Temporary Protection, the Commission is also urging member states to consider alternative residency options such as working or student visas for your long-term stays.
Why the change? The Commission wants to prevent multiple registrations for temporary protection in several countries, aiming for a more equitable distribution of refugees among member states. They're advising member states to review your residency options and provide you with more information about returning home if desired. However, these recommendations are non-binding, leaving decisions up to each member state.
With over 4.3 million Ukrainians having sought refuge in Europe since the start of the conflict, Germany has taken in the most (over 1.2 million), followed by Poland (around one million) and the Czech Republic (400,000). As of next week, member states may approve the Commission's proposal to extend your protected status until March 2027.
Another important point: Ukrainian refugees in Germany may face changes in social benefits in the future, according to the coalition agreement between the Union and the SPD. Presently, you've been eligible for citizen's income automatically. However, under the new agreement, you'll have to apply for benefits for asylum seekers instead.
Overall, the Commission is preparing for a phased return of refugees to Ukraine, while also considering integrating them further into EU societies. They're proposing the establishment of Unity Hubs or Unity Centers to support integration and provide information on both integration and return options. Additionally, voluntary return programs with exploratory visits may be implemented once it's safe for a staggered return.
So, stay tuned, Ukrainian refugees! The EU Commission's plans are designed to ensure a smooth transition for you, whether you choose to return home to rebuild or decide to integrate further into your host countries.
[1] ntv.de[2] Newspaper name abbreviations: als/dpa/AFP[3] enrichment data: Exploratory visits for assessing the situation in Ukraine before deciding on a return will be facilitated. Voluntary return programs will also be established when necessary conditions are met, such as achieving a just and lasting peace.[4] enrichment data: Striving for a gradual transition from temporary protection to more durable forms of support or a safe return ensures that refugees aren't left without support when temporary protection ends. Better refugee sharing among EU member states and eliminating double residence permits are also part of the plan for managing flows more effectively.[5] enrichment data: Unity Hubs or Unity Centers will be established to support integration and provide information on both integration and return options. A gradual return to Ukraine will be facilitated via these hubs with exploratory visits.
The EU Commission's emphasis on extending temporary protected status for Ukrainian refugees is not merely about labor market access and social benefits; politics also play a role, as the Commission aims to prevent multiple registrations across member states and promote a more equitable distribution of refugees.
In addition to preparing for a phased return of Ukrainian refugees to their homeland, the EU Commission is also concerned with integrating them further into EU societies. This includes the establishment of Unity Hubs or Unity Centers to support integration and provide information on both integration and return options, as well as the potential implementation of voluntary return programs with exploratory visits.
