The Council of Europe’s Commissioner for Human Rights, Michael O’Flaherty, has stated that there has been a significant shift in EU policy towards Ukrainian refugees, driven by economic difficulties and rising xenophobia.
- The EU has extended temporary protection status for Ukrainians until March 2026.
- Living conditions have become harsher due to the countries’ economic problems.
- Germany, Poland and the Czech Republic have introduced new restrictions on refugees.
- 50% Ukrainians plan to stay in Europe, whilst others want to return home.
- Anti-Ukrainian sentiment is on the rise in some countries.
Changes to EU policy: what’s happening?
Statement by the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights Michael O’Flaherty truly reflects a significant shift in European countries’ policies towards Ukrainian refugees, which came to the fore between 2024 and 2026. The European Union has continued temporary protection status for Ukrainians until 4 March 2028, although the conditions of stay have become considerably stricter. This is due to budget shortfalls and attempts to integrate Ukrainians of working age into local labour markets.
Germany: new challenges for refugees
In Germany, the government is actively rolling out the Jobturbo programme to speed up job placement. Bürgergeld (citizen’s allowance) payments for those who refuse work or training courses without valid reasons are being significantly reduced. Funding for the regions to support refugees has also been cut. This creates additional difficulties for those who are unable to find work.
Poland: scrapping of support schemes
In Poland, the «40+» programme, which reimbursed local residents for the costs of providing accommodation to Ukrainians, has been scrapped. The one-off grant of 300 zlotys is also no longer available, and accommodation in collective centres has become partially fee-based for those who have been in the country for a long time. These changes are jeopardising Ukrainians’ ability to remain in Poland.
Czech Republic: housing restrictions
The Czech Republic has reduced the period of free humanitarian accommodation to 90 days for everyone. Previously, this period was unlimited for vulnerable groups. Now, many Ukrainians are forced to look for commercial accommodation, which is an unbearable burden for pensioners and large families.
Norway and Ireland: budget cuts
Norway and Ireland Weekly payments to new arrivals in state-provided accommodation have been drastically cut. In Ireland, payments have fallen from €220 to €38.80, and the duration of free accommodation has also been limited. This indicates an intention to make the country less attractive to new waves of migrants.
The mood among Ukrainians: to stay or to return?
Surveys by the Razumkov Centre, KMIS and migration platforms confirm a divide amongst Ukrainians: half have settled in, found work and enrolled their children in local schools, whilst the other half are keen to return due to everyday difficulties, the language barrier or the end of the war. «I have seen cuts to social benefits, which are causing serious difficulties for people,» notes O’Flaherty.
The rise of xenophobia
O’Flaherty also highlighted the growth anti-Ukrainian sentiments, which are being recorded in some countries. Social media and radical politicians often exploit the refugee issue for their own ends, accusing Ukrainians of placing a strain on healthcare and education systems. This creates additional challenges for those trying to adapt to their new circumstances.
