Plans have changed: how many Ukrainian refugees are planning to return home from Europe

This was stated in an interview by Michael O’Flaerty, the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, according to RBC-Ukraine.

“As far as I recall, in 2022 about a third wanted to return home, a third wanted to stay in their country of residence, and a third were undecided. The latest figures suggest a more even split of roughly 50/50 between those who want to return and those who want to stay,” said the Commissioner.

He also added that the reasons for staying outside Ukraine are very complex and varied – a conclusion O’Flaherty reached himself after speaking with refugees.

“I have met many mothers who say: ‘We have to stay because our children are at school, studying at university, and we have to be here for their sake.’ Others talk about how they have settled in and built up a support network. They are starting families in the country that has taken them in. So it no longer makes sense. This country has become their home,” said the European Commissioner.

However, he added that there is a significant proportion of Ukrainians who wish to return to their homeland.

“They love their country and want to play a part in its reconstruction. And some elderly people simply want to spend their final years in a place they know and love. So the reasons are very varied,” concluded O’Flaherty.

Previously, Socportal reported on how refugees are being received within Ukraine itself, as well as on a study concerning Ukrainian migrants, which reveals exactly who has left, how Ukrainians are integrating in Europe, and what might influence people’s decision to return home. It also looked at what the state can do to facilitate this and whether those who have become part of the Ukrainian diaspora abroad are helping the country.

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