Ukraine is one of the countries that actively interacts with migrants and refugees seeking asylum on its territory. Recently, the situation with migration has become even more urgent due to political and economic changes in the world. In this regard, it is important to keep track of the latest news and developments in this area to have a complete picture of the situation.
In this article, we will look at the latest news on migration and refugees in Ukraine, including legislative changes, refugee reception, integration projects and much more.
Recent trends in migration policy
In light of global changes and crises in the international arena, Ukraine is actively working to improve its migration policy. Recently, there has been an increase in the number of migrants attempting to enter Ukraine through border checkpoints.
One of the key trends is the tightening of control over migration flows. The Government of Ukraine is taking new measures to improve the system of monitoring and control over migration processes at the country’s border. This is important to ensure security and prevent possible threats to national security.
In addition, an important aspect is the development of programs and projects to integrate migrants into Ukrainian society. The government, together with its international partners, is actively working to create conditions for the successful adaptation of migrants, providing them with access to education, medical services and social support.
The general trend shows that Ukraine is constantly improving its migration policy, taking into account the current challenges and needs of both its own population and migrants arriving on its territory.
Reforms in the migration control system
Ukraine continues to actively implement reforms in the field of migration control aimed at improving the system of admission of foreigners, control over their stay and legalisation of labour. Recently, the government has focused on improving the efficiency of work permit procedures for foreigners.
One of the key initiatives is to simplify the procedures for issuing work permits for foreigners, which will help attract skilled labour to the Ukrainian labour market. Such measures will help to improve the country’s competitiveness and the development of the economy as a whole.
- Improving the procedures for issuing work permits.
- Introduction of an electronic system for submitting permit applications.
- Increase control over the legality of employment of foreigners.
These measures will help improve the regulation of migration processes, ensure more effective control over the stay of foreigners in the country, and promote cooperation with other countries in the field of migration and refugees.
Changes in the procedure for obtaining refugee status
Recently, Ukraine has introduced changes to the procedure for obtaining refugee status. Now, in order to obtain this status, it is necessary to undergo a more rigorous check, including detailed interrogation and document verification.
The new procedure provides for:
- Extension of the timeframe for consideration of applications for refugee status;
- Stricter requirements for documentary evidence of circumstances indicating the need for protection;
- Introducing additional stages of verification of the accuracy of the data submitted.
These amendments are aimed at avoiding possible cases of abuse of the procedure and ensuring fair and reasonable decision-making on granting refugee status.
Up-to-date statistics
In 2021, the number of migrants who entered Ukraine was over 100,000. Overall, the country is currently home to more than 2 million foreigners.
According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine, most migrants come from Russia, Belarus, Moldova and Georgia. The number of refugees seeking asylum in Ukraine due to conflicts in neighbouring countries is also growing.
In 2020, the number of applications for refugee status doubled compared to the previous year. According to the Office for Refugees, most of the applications were submitted by citizens of Afghanistan, Syria and Iraq.
Number of migrants who entered Ukraine in the last year
In the reporting period, about 100,000 migrants entered Ukraine over the past year. This includes both economic migrants and refugees seeking asylum in Ukraine. During this period, there was a significant increase in the number of migrants entering the country, indicating an increase in migration flows in Ukraine.
Dynamics of changes in the number of registered refugees
Over the past month, the number of registered refugees in Ukraine has increased by 15%. This indicates an aggravation of the situation in the region and an increase in the flow of people seeking asylum in the country.
The main causes of refugee migration include political conflicts, economic hardship and natural disasters. The Government of Ukraine is actively working to provide the necessary support and protection for the newly arrived refugees.
According to refugee assistance organisations, the largest number of registered persons come from countries where armed conflicts and hostilities are ongoing.
Important events in the field of migration
- The Government of Ukraine has adopted a new law on migration that simplifies the procedure for obtaining refugee status
- The number of migrants attempting to illegally cross the border of Ukraine for employment purposes has increased
- Migration authorities revealed facts of exploitation of migrants in illegal migration schemes
- National Police strengthens control over the organisation of migrant transport across the border of Ukraine
International agreements on cooperation in migration matters
Ukraine is a party to a number of international agreements aimed at cooperation in the field of migration and refugee protection. One of these agreements is the United Nations Convention relating to the Status of Refugees, which defines the legal status of refugees and their rights and obligations.
In addition, Ukraine has signed a cooperation agreement with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), which provides support in addressing the problems of migrants, refugees and displaced persons. This agreement promotes mutual understanding and exchange of experience in the field of migration.
Also important is the agreement on cooperation between Ukraine and the European Union in the field of migration, which provides for joint measures to manage migration processes, protect migrants’ rights and combat illegal migration.
Initiatives of NGOs in support of refugees
Civil society organisations in Ukraine are actively involved in supporting refugees and migrants in need. These initiatives may include humanitarian aid, legal advice, psychological support and other types of assistance.
NGOs also run various projects and programs aimed at integrating refugees into Ukrainian society. This may include language courses, cultural activities, vocational training and other measures aimed at facilitating refugees’ adaptation to the new environment.
Cooperation between civil society organisations and government agencies, international organisations and other stakeholders can significantly improve the living conditions of refugees in Ukraine and facilitate their successful integration into society.
