War leaves deep scars on a nation, not only in terms of destruction and loss of life but also in the displacement of its people.
Millions of Ukrainians have fled their homes since Russia’s invasion began, seeking safety abroad.
Some have returned, hoping to rebuild, while others remain uncertain about their future.
A recent survey conducted by the Razumkov Center and the Democratic Initiatives Foundation reveals that 21% of Ukrainians plan to leave the country once the war ends, while 70% intend to stay.
Public Sentiment Will Change
The desire to emigrate is strongest among young people aged 18 to 29, according to WP.
Oleksiy Honcharenko, a member of Ukraine’s parliament, acknowledges the challenges Ukrainians face.
"People live under constant shelling. Missiles and drones are striking our cities. I’m surprised that only 21% want to leave — it could easily be 90%," he told Rzeczpospolita.
Honcharenko believes that attitudes will shift after the war.
He argues that once martial law is lifted and Ukraine holds presidential and parliamentary elections, public sentiment will change.
He expects a psychological reset, fresh opportunities, and a new sense of hope, regardless of who wins the elections.
Economic recovery could also play a role in reversing migration trends.
Ukrainian economist Oleksandr Okhrimenko sees the massive financial aid expected from the EU and other Western partners as a key factor.
"If the war ends and reconstruction funds arrive, we will see rapid economic growth. For many Ukrainians who moved to the West, rebuilding their country will create new opportunities. It could be similar to Germany’s post-WWII recovery," he explained.
Okhrimenko also noted that many Ukrainians living in Europe are struggling.
"The situation has changed. They are not treated as well as they were when the war first started in 2022. Many remain abroad only because the war continues. When it ends, we will see large-scale returns, not just from Poland but from across Europe," he added.
