Language learning, financial support, employment the most pressing needs of displaced persons from Ukraine

The European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA) has released a factsheet based on surveys conducted with arriving migrants from Ukraine. One of the key findings was that learning the local language (59%), financial support (49%) and finding a job (47%) are the most pressing needs declared by displaced persons from Ukraine. About half of the respondents reported being “somewhat satisfied” or “very satisfied” with most support services available to them.

The survey showed that groups with distinct profiles have specific needs. For example, respondents with underage children have a more pressing need for their children’s education and financial support was needed by more respondents who have not yet reached their preferred destination.

Satisfaction with provision of support services among respondents varied significantly. About one in every two respondents were “broadly satisfied” with education, living conditions, language learning and accommodation support as opposed to just one-in-four for psychological support and one-in-five for legal advice. At the same time, between 15% and 31% of respondents were “broadly unsatisfied” with the support provided.

Most respondents have access to some form of legal protection with 84% having registered for temporary protection and 24% applied for international protection. The majority (44%) are currently living in apartments or rooms paid by themselves, followed by 23% who are residing in government-provided housing/reception centre and 13% who are staying with friends or family.

The respondents of the survey were mainly female (77%), aged between 18 and 44 (72%), and Ukrainian (98 %). More than half of the respondents have children with them (53%) and some 15% care for dependent adults, such as elderly or persons with disabilities and/or serious health conditions.