The war in Ukraine will reach its one-year milestone on 24 February. Whilst the fallout of the Russian invasion, whether geopolitical, economic, energy- or food-related, has left few countries untouched, the European Union has had to gear up for the prolonged stay of nearly 5 million displaced Ukrainians and face the prospect of new arrivals amid unrelenting violence. This has presented policymakers with the multi-pronged challenge of integrating Ukrainian refugees into housing, education, and labour markets while also preparing for the eventual rebuilding of Ukraine and return of millions of its citizens. Nearly one year into the massive displacement and the relief effort, join this MPI Europe webinar examining what has been done to foster the integration of those staying long(er) in host societies, to organise first reception services for any additional newcomers, and to prepare the return of those set on going home and rebuilding Ukraine. Speakers, including the Head of the Asylum Unit for the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs, will explore responses ranging from swift implementation of the Temporary Protection Directive to improvements in labour market integration, as well as efforts to facilitate social and economic reintegration for those intent on returning. The speakers will also consider how the tension between reception, integration, and return (to rebuild) has materialised in the context of the Ukrainian response, and the challenges that lie ahead. The time is ripe to devise a range of approaches that can serve the interests of displaced Ukrainians, host societies, and Ukraine alike. This webinar will examine whether the emerging practices are adequate. |
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