🚶♀️➡️ Ukrainian Migration: Forced, Stressful, but Also Transformative 🚶♂️➡️
The war in Ukraine has forced millions of Ukrainians to migrate abroad, with the primary motivation being safety for themselves and their children. Among them, women, who make up the majority of migrants, had often considered emigration before the war, but the events of February 2022 accelerated their decision.
Most Ukrainians sought host countries where they had family or friends to help them settle in, with Poland being a popular choice due to geographical proximity and familiarity with the culture and language. Some, however, moved from Poland to other countries like Germany in search of better opportunities.
While feeling safer, many migrants experienced stress, loneliness, and homesickness. Key challenges included language barriers, finding jobs that matched their skills, employment issues for mothers with young children, and difficulties accessing healthcare.
Despite these challenges, migrants noted several advantages, such as high social security, free education for children, and job protections in European countries. However, the cultural differences and local attitudes toward migrants were less frequently mentioned.
Children, adolescents, and young people adapted more easily than adults, finding friends and integrating quickly into schools. For adults, particularly women, adaptation was harder. Women often had to take low-wage jobs to support their families, while men had more opportunities due to higher salaries and the ability to work remotely.
The impact of Ukrainian migrants on receiving countries has been largely positive. Many have contributed to the local economy by working or starting businesses. Their presence has also increased awareness of Ukrainian culture and strengthened the distinction from Russian influence.
As for returning to Ukraine, many migrants face internal conflict. Factors like the war’s outcome, safety, economic recovery, and family reunification will influence their decisions. However, obstacles such as loss of housing, ongoing occupation of hometowns, and better living conditions abroad may deter them from returning.
Post-war challenges include the need for psychological rehabilitation, rebuilding infrastructure, and addressing workforce shortages.
Source: "Study of Gender Specifics of Forced Migration from Ukraine to the EU in the Military Conflict" by Pyshchulina, Razumkov Centre, The Ukrainian Centre for Economic and Political Studies named after Oleksander Razumkov
Read the full report here: https://lnkd.in/d-JY7552
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