The EU will decide the fate of millions of Ukrainians: when a decision will be made regarding refugees.


The European Commission is preparing a proposal for Ukrainian refugees
The European Commission is preparing a proposal regarding the future of the Temporary Protection Directive for Ukrainians. The mechanism, which was introduced as an emergency solution for refugees from Ukraine, is currently testing the limits of European law.
Discussions are underway about a possible one-year extension of the directive, with a possible statement from member states about a phased lifting of protection. The issue may be resolved during the meeting of the Council on Internal Affairs and Justice on June 12-13.
'We are already on thin ice with the last extension,' said Martin Wagner, senior policy advisor at the International Centre for Migration Policy Development. 'A direct reading of the directive would mean that after three years, it would all be over.'
Most member states support the extension, but experts warn about the limited legal options for this.
Exit strategies on the agenda
According to EU diplomats, discussions about 'exit strategies' are gaining momentum due to changes in the geopolitical landscape. It is important to develop a transition strategy for those who plan to stay or return.
'If we do not provide an exit option from protection, we risk overwhelming national asylum systems - exactly what the directive was supposed to prevent,' warned an EU representative.
Alternative scenarios
One possible option is to narrow the scope of protection, excluding it during the return to Ukraine and blocking new arrivals. At the same Time, the creation of a new legal instrument is also being considered as an alternative.
'Every option, whether narrowing the scope or introducing a new instrument, mandatory or optional, has its complexities. Ultimately, we will have to ask: what happens after temporary protection? There is no escaping that,' summed up Martin Wagner.
Despite significant measures for Ukrainian refugees, plans for a gradual return to Ukraine have already been developed. Thus, the fate of Ukrainian refugees remains in the spotlight of the European Commission and EU member states.
Read also
- The Energy Fund increased procurement volumes of equipment for Ukraine
- The European Union has extended certain sanctions against Russia: deadlines announced
- Behind the wheel is not allowed: drivers are deprived of their rights for evading mobilization
- Check your cards: Ukrainians will receive money for utilities, medicines and more
- 'Egg Attack' on Drivers: Ukrainians Explained How Not to Fall Victim to Car Thieves
- Concerns all PrivatBank clients: Privat24 has received an important update