Finland minimizes humanitarian assistance for Ukrainian displaced persons
In a notable shift, the Finnish government has decided to reduce its assistance to Ukrainian refugees, citing budgetary concerns as the primary reason [1][3][4][5]. This move aims to cut spending on refugee integration programs and development aid by hundreds of millions of euros starting from 2026.
The implications of this policy change are far-reaching. For Ukrainian refugees, the cancellation of integration support may severely limit access to essential services like language training and job assistance, undermining their ability to settle and integrate into Finnish society. Currently, Ukrainian refugees account for a large majority (about 66–75%) of those receiving integration aid in Finland [1].
This reduction in humanitarian aid may also increase uncertainty and hardship for Ukrainians displaced by the conflict, potentially limiting their prospects abroad and increasing pressure on Ukrainian social systems and neighboring countries.
The Finnish government's decision has also affected the activities of NGOs, such as Ukrainians of Finland, where the level of activity has decreased [2]. Additionally, the number of volunteers providing humanitarian aid for the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has also seen a decline.
With funding cut, NGOs and local governments will face challenges in maintaining refugee support programs, potentially leading to reduced service quality, fewer resources for refugee welfare, and increased strain on social infrastructures [1][4].
This policy change, part of Finland’s broader fiscal strategy involving austerity measures and reallocation of funds towards priorities like defense spending, marks a significant reduction in Finland’s humanitarian commitment to Ukrainian refugees and related assistance [3].
As a result, an increase in Ukrainians moving to permanent residence in the Baltic States, Ireland, and Canada has been observed. This shift may equate immigrants from Ukraine with ordinary migrants.
Hannah Vyakhovsky, a leader of the Finnish organization for assistance to Ukrainians "Hane Peace Ukraine," provided this information.
- The decrease in Finnish government aid could impact Ukrainian refugees' migration prospects, as they might be compelled to seek opportunities in other countries like the Baltic States, Ireland, or Canada.
- The reduction in funding for NGOs in Finland, such as Ukrainians of Finland, is causing worry among proponents of Ukrainian refugee rights, as there may be less support available for essential services, job assistance, and language training needed for successful integration into Finnish society.
