Returning refugees to Ukraine as the best solution to stimulate recovery

The war in Ukraine has become the largest humanitarian crisis in Europe since World War II. Millions of Ukrainians have been forced to leave their homes, seeking refuge both within the country and abroad. In this situation, it is crucial not only to ensure their safety but also to create conditions for their return home. The return of Ukrainian refugees will be a key element in the country’s recovery—ranging from stabilizing the demographic situation to stimulating economic development.

Since the beginning of the war, over 6 million Ukrainians have become refugees, most of whom have fled to neighboring European countries. Poland, Germany, the Czech Republic, and other EU nations have been the primary destinations for those seeking safety. Meanwhile, more than 5 million people have become internally displaced, having left their homes in the east and south of the country. Despite the active efforts of the Ukrainian government and international organizations to support refugees, the challenges associated with their return remain significant.

The first and biggest challenge is the lack of housing. Many cities and villages have been destroyed or severely damaged during the fighting, making it impossible for hundreds of thousands of people to return. Another major obstacle is the shortage of jobs, particularly in the regions most affected by the war. Additionally, infrastructure, such as schools, hospitals, and transport networks, also requires restoration to create basic living conditions.

In this report, we propose developing a comprehensive state program that includes the following key elements:

1. Development and implementation of state programs for housing construction and reconstruction, including social housing based on principles of inclusion. This also involves the creation of a national social and municipal housing fund with the option of social rental.
2. Creating conditions for the development of small and medium-sized businesses that will contribute to job creation in war-affected regions. This may include state grants and preferential loans for entrepreneurs willing to operate in these areas.
3. Professional training and retraining of refugees, particularly young people and vulnerable groups, to help them integrate into the economy and find employment.
4. Providing support to people who have experienced the traumas of war, enabling them to successfully return to peaceful life. This may include psychological assistance and social reintegration programs.

However, the most statistically significant factors influencing the return of refugees to Ukraine include the definitive end of the war, well-paying jobs, a higher standard of living, infrastructure restoration, de-occupation of territories, and financial support from the state.

The return of Ukrainians home is not just a technical task of rebuilding housing. It is a large-scale process that requires a comprehensive approach and the combined efforts of the state, the international community, and the citizens themselves. The successful return of Ukrainian refugees will determine the country’s future—its economic stability, social cohesion, and strategic recovery. Therefore, it is crucial to develop and implement an effective strategy now that will help our compatriots feel at home again.

Only by joining forces can we bring our people back home and rebuild a strong and prosperous Ukraine together.