Temporary protection for Ukrainians in EU set to be extended to 2027
The protected refugee status of Ukrainians in the European Union should be extended for another year, the European Commission said on Wednesday.
In light of the ongoing war and the volatile situation in Ukraine, the EU's executive body proposed an extension until March 2027.
The member states could seal the proposal at a meeting next week.
The status of Ukrainian refugees is currently regulated by the EU Temporary Protection Directive.
They do not have to go through the usual asylum procedures and have comparatively good access to the labour market and social benefits.
According to the commission, over 4.3 million people have fled from Ukraine to the European Union since the start of the war.
Germany has taken in the highest number of refugees, with over 1.2 million people.
Member states should also prepare for a time when the Ukrainian refugees are able to return home, the commission said.
Governments should ensure there are other prospects for Ukrainian nationals, such as in the form of work or student visas.
Refugees should also receive more information about return options and be able to visit their home country more easily, the commission stated.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the EU would support Ukraine for "as long as it takes."
"Today, we propose to extend EU protection for Ukrainians fleeing the war," she posted on X. "We're also supporting Ukrainians in their choices and paving the way for their safe return home."
Magnus Brenner, the European commissioner for internal affairs and migration, announced the creation of a special EU envoy for Ukrainians.
He said that the temporary protection status for Ukrainian nationals could also be terminated before March 2027 in the event of a stable ceasefire.
At a press conference, Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Chernyshov encouraged Ukrainians to return to their homeland as soon as conditions allow.
"They are very much needed on the Ukrainian labour market to build a new, strong economy," he argued.
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