Ukrainians are safer in Germany than on average in European countries: survey results
In today’s world, security has become one of the most important values, especially for those who have been forced to leave their homes due to war. Ukrainians who have found refuge in various European countries are looking not only for material stability, but also for confidence that their lives and the lives of their children are protected. Germany, as one of the countries that accepted the largest number of Ukrainian refugees, comes to the fore in this context. However, despite the relative safety that Ukrainians feel in Germany, their experiences and experiences testify to the complex challenges they face.
Germany has long been a center of migration flows and is noted for its commitment to ensuring the safety and integration of refugees. However, despite the efforts of the government and public organizations, Ukrainians in Germany face certain difficulties that affect their sense of security.
The results of a survey conducted by Gradus Research show that Ukrainians in Germany feel safer than on average in other European countries. This is confirmed by the words of the Ambassador of Ukraine to Germany, Oleksiy Makeev, who noted:
“Ukrainians and Ukrainians in Germany generally feel safer than on average in European countries.”
This may be related to the relatively stable situation in the country, with well-developed social institutions and a high level of law and order. However, even in Germany, Ukrainians have serious concerns, especially regarding the safety of their children. It’s a natural instinct for any parent, but when it comes to living in a foreign country, these fears can be greatly heightened.
One of the most worrying trends revealed by the survey is the low level of calls to the police or other authorities in case of danger. Only 12% of Ukrainians seek help when they feel threatened. These statistics may indicate several factors: lack of trust in local authorities, a language barrier, or cultural characteristics that prevent seeking help in an unfamiliar environment.
Of particular note is the fact that 50% of those who contacted the German police believe that their problems were ignored or not properly resolved. Ambassador Oleksiy Makeev noted that the case was considered, but the request was not satisfied. This may indicate insufficient attention to the specific needs of Ukrainians or problems in communication between refugees and local authorities. Such a situation is unacceptable, because every citizen, regardless of his nationality, has the right to safety and protection.
The Ukrainian diplomatic mission in Germany reacted to this situation by publishing an instruction for Ukrainians, which contains specific advice and recommendations on how to act in case of discrimination, physical or psychological violence. This document also covers issues related to child safety, including bullying in schools. Such an initiative is an important step in ensuring the rights and freedoms of Ukrainians abroad, but it also indicates the existence of serious problems that need to be solved at the state level.
Security is not just the absence of war or violence. It is also the assurance that your rights are protected, that you can count on help in a difficult situation, that your children can live and develop in a safe environment. Ukrainians in Germany, as in other European countries, face challenges that require not only attention from the public and authorities, but also systemic solutions that will provide them with a real sense of security and protection.