The Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS) conducted a poll that found half of Ukrainian refugees in Germany, Poland, and Czechia are less likely to return to Ukraine. Over 4.2 million Ukrainian refugees are currently registered for temporary protection in EU states, with Poland hosting the highest number at roughly 1 million. The poll also revealed that 66% of respondents were satisfied with their lives in these countries, with 7% having received citizenship and 45% wanting to obtain citizenship. Factors influencing their decision to return included safety and the proper functioning of critical infrastructure, with 26% stating they would not return until the full-scale invasion was over.
The executive director of KIIS, Anton Hrushetskyi, expressed concern over the results of the poll, noting that many Ukrainian refugees are losing their connection with Ukraine and facing a difficult decision about whether to settle in their current locations or wait for the right moment to return. Hrushetskyi emphasized the need for government and society to support those who wish to return to Ukraine. The survey results suggest a growing hesitance among Ukrainian refugees about returning to their home country, as a previous study conducted in January found that 64% of respondents planned to return.
The collapse of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure due to Russia’s war last year brought the country to its knees, but widespread blackouts were avoided this winter. However, recent attacks by Russian forces on critical infrastructure have raised concerns about the depopulation of Ukraine. These attacks have targeted energy infrastructure, posing a threat to the country’s stability and security. The ongoing conflict with Russia continues to impact the lives of Ukrainian refugees, making their decision to return even more complicated. It is crucial for international support to be given to Ukraine to address these challenges and ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens.
