European countries are preparing for a possible new wave of refugees from Ukraine, which is expected due to the difficult situation caused by the war and its aftermath. Find out more about what Ukrainians planning to migrate should expect

Legal assistance on migration issues for Ukrainians in Ukraine and abroad

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The winter period of 2024-2025 could be challenging for the European Union, as a new wave of refugees from Ukraine is expected, caused by the protracted war and growing challenges for local infrastructure. The situation is complicated by the possibility of both continued fighting and a potential end to the war under certain circumstances.

Which European countries are ready to accept Ukrainians?

European countries, including the Czech Republic and Poland, are preparing for a possible new wave of Ukrainian refugees.

In particular, the Czech Republic, which has already received about 381,000 Ukrainian refugees, is concerned about the possibility of a further influx. According to experts, the key problems faced by newcomers include limited access to housing, medical services and educational institutions. According to Hana Mala, a spokesperson for the Czech Ministry of the Interior, the country's support system is operating at its maximum capacity, and it is impossible to predict exactly how many additional refugees the state can accept.

At the same time, the integration of Ukrainian refugees into Czech society has a certain positive economic effect: in the second quarter of 2024, tax revenues paid by refugees exceeded government spending on their support. However, the growing number of new arrivals is putting additional pressure on the housing market, medical services, and educational institutions, especially in metropolitan areas such as Prague, which is home to more than 98,000 people with temporary protection.

Robert Stojanov, a migration expert at Mendeleev University in Brno, believes that a large influx of refugees could occur if Ukrainian defense lines collapse.

In addition, the National Bank of Ukraine notes that in 2024 the flow of people leaving the country exceeded expectations due to the difficult energy situation and predicts that the net outflow of migrants could reach 500,000 people.

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Poland's preparations for the new flow

The Lubelskie Voivodeship in Poland, which traditionally provides assistance to Ukrainians, is also preparing for a possible increase in refugees. According to the Consul General of Ukraine in Lublin, Oleh Kuts, a list of volunteers and a plan for assistance in case of need have been created. The local authorities are able to deploy reception centers within 24-48 hours, which allows them to respond effectively to migration crises.

Energy crisis and its impact on migration

The International Energy Agency warns that the coming winter will be a serious test for Ukraine, especially in the face of damaged energy infrastructure. According to the agency, up to six months of cold weather, with temperatures as low as -20°C, put cities at risk of significant power outages.

Possible end of the war and its consequences for the EU

Another important reason that could lead to migration growth is the possible end of the war under certain conditions. In this case, according to the Czech counterintelligence agency BIS, tens of thousands of Ukrainian soldiers could return to their families in the EU, which could potentially complicate internal security in some countries. The Czech Republic envisages the possibility of organizing refugee camps and launching crisis management if the new flow cannot be accommodated in existing housing.

How to protect yourself while traveling?

Against the backdrop of these challenges, it is important to have health insurance that will provide access to medical services if needed. The Visit Ukraine website has special insurance for Ukrainians, which includes support in various medical cases and quick assistance. This solution will be indispensable for those who travel abroad and face difficulties in adapting to the new environment.

The international insurance service “Green Card” is also important for car owners crossing borders. This policy allows you to avoid possible difficulties during road checks and provides financial protection in the event of an accident abroad. Green Card helps to be confident on the road, providing liability and legal protection for drivers.

Protect your health and travel confidence with Visit Ukraine!

We remind you! Given the difficult situation faced by Ukrainian citizens who have left for Germany due to the hostilities, the German government has prepared a draft law that provides additional time and opportunities for Ukrainians. We talked about a draft law that proposes to extend the Aufenthaltssübergangsverordnung.

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