On 6 June, Commissioner for Jobs and Social Rights, Nicolas Schmit, and Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson will hold a joint press point with Special Adviser for Ukraine Lodewijk Asscher. The Special Adviser will have chance to present the outcomes of the report on the integration of people fleeing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in the EU.

In light of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, Commissioner Schmit appointed Mr Asscher in June 2022 to assist and coordinate efforts of the European Commission to promote the integration of Ukrainian refugees in EU Member States in terms of work, housing, education and healthcare.

Based on the Special Adviser’s missions to Member States and his exchanges with representatives from public authorities, social partners, civil society initiatives, as well as displaced people from Ukraine, the report provides an overview of good practices across the EU. Moreover, it presents a set of recommendations on the reception and integration of the people fleeing Ukraine.

The report focuses on the Temporary Protection Directive playing a key role in giving access to people from Ukraine to the EU labour market and social services, as well as providing immediate protection.

Press point

The press point will take place at the Berlaymont VIP Press Corner tomorrow at 10.00 CEST and can be followed live on EbS.

Background

Since day one of Russia’s unjustified invasion of Ukraine, the EU showed unprecedented solidarity with Ukrainian people. For the first time, the EU has activated Temporary Protection Directive, which gave more than 4 million people an immediate access to the EU labour market, education, healthcare, social benefits and accommodation.

This protection has already been extended until March 2024 and the Commission is ready to take the necessary steps for further prolongation if needed.

To help Member States cater the needs of Ukrainians in the EU, the Commission has made available up to €17 billion.

The Commission has been supporting the integration of people fleeing Ukraine through initiatives like the EU Talent Pool Pilot, matching people’s skills with job offers. It also provided guidance for the organisation of private housing initiatives through the Safe Homes initiative and Safe Homes guidance.

In addition, the Commission has adopted policy guidance for Member States on labour market integration of those fleeing the war. matching people’s skills with job offers. It also provided guidance for the organisation of private housing initiatives through the Safe Homes initiative.