Ukraine is making efforts to encourage its citizens who sought refuge in Germany to return home as the war with Russia approaches its third year.
According to Digi24, Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Oleksii Chernyshov announced plans to set up processing centers, initially in Berlin and later in other locations, to assist refugees with job opportunities, housing, and education—both in Germany and in Ukraine.
“A significant number of Ukrainians are seriously considering returning home,” Chernyshov stated after discussions with German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser.
The so-called “unity centers” will support those wishing to return while also helping those who choose to stay in Germany integrate more effectively.
Mixed Reactions in Germany
Germany’s refugee policies have provided a safe haven for approximately 1.2 million Ukrainians since the start of the Russian invasion. However, these policies have sparked debate within the country.
Friedrich Merz, leader of the center-right Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and a candidate for chancellor in the upcoming elections, previously accused Ukrainian refugees of “social tourism,” suggesting they were exploiting Germany’s welfare system by traveling back and forth to Ukraine. His comments drew widespread criticism, leading him to issue a public apology.
By the end of 2024, around 240,000 Ukrainian refugees held socially insured jobs in Germany, a significant increase from the previous year. However, challenges remain, as more than 60% of adult refugees are women, many of whom struggle to balance childcare responsibilities with employment.
Ukraine’s Need for Repatriation
While Germany continues to support Ukrainian refugees, Ukraine is facing a demographic crisis. The country's population has sharply declined due to decades of emigration and the ongoing war. Officials estimate that between 20 to 25 million Ukrainians now live abroad, compared to 32 million within the country—down from 52 million in 1991.
Chernyshov emphasized that Ukraine urgently needs skilled workers to rebuild key sectors such as construction, energy, and defense. “Returning refugees will be vital for our recovery,” he stated, highlighting the importance of reversing the population decline.
The unity centers aim to strike a balance between offering support to those remaining in Germany and encouraging voluntary repatriation.
