In an effort to reconnect with war refugees in Germany, the Ukrainian government is introducing “unity hubs” to help them rebuild their lives, whether in Germany or back home. These centers, starting in Berlin and planned for other cities, aim to assist Ukrainians with job placement, housing, and educational opportunities to promote voluntary repatriation.
“A significant number of Ukrainians are seriously considering returning home,” said Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Chernyshov, who heads the Ministry of National Unity, created in December to focus on refugee return efforts. During his visit to Berlin, Chernyshov worked on the hub’s launch preparations, emphasizing Ukraine’s need for workers to support key industries like energy, arms production, and reconstruction.
Germany’s Federal Minister of the Interior, Nancy Faeser, highlighted the initiative’s role in maintaining ties with Ukrainians abroad. “The first Unity Hub in Berlin will soon assist us in this effort,” she said. The hubs will serve as cultural and practical resource centers, offering language and integration courses, support for finding jobs both in Germany and Ukraine, and advice on voluntary repatriation.
The need for such efforts is clear. According to the UNHCR, Germany has registered 1.24 million Ukrainian refugees since Russia’s invasion in early 2022. While Ukraine estimates that 32 million citizens remain in government-controlled areas, between 20 and 25 million now live abroad.
Although Ukraine is trying to entice workers back by offering military deferrals for those employed in critical sectors—“If you work at a power plant, you won’t be called up. You have a guarantee,” Chernyshov said—convincing refugees to return is proving tough.
Surveys reveal a growing desire among Ukrainians in Germany to stay. A November 2024 poll conducted at Berlin’s Tegel emergency shelter showed 65% of respondents wanted to remain in Germany permanently, a marked shift from earlier hopes of returning home post-war.
Berlin’s State Office for Refugee Affairs President Mark Seibert noted the change in sentiment: “We see that the picture is turning. Currently, a majority say: ‘We’re staying here. We’re getting settled.’”
This trend mirrors national data. A 2023 survey by the IAB research group found that 44% of Ukrainian refugees intended to stay in Germany long-term, up from 37% the previous year.
Despite access to work permits, social benefits, healthcare, and language courses, many refugees struggle to integrate into the workforce. Although three-quarters of working-age Ukrainians have taken or completed language courses, only 8% report good or very good proficiency in German, limiting job prospects. Currently, only 18% of working-age refugees have regular employment.
While Ukraine wants its citizens back to aid in rebuilding efforts, it recognizes the importance of helping those who choose to remain abroad. The unity hubs will also help refugees in Germany secure jobs or professional qualifications, aiming to reduce their reliance on government aid.
“You should not be a burden on the government,” Chernyshov stressed, underscoring the initiative’s dual mission: supporting integration abroad while encouraging voluntary return to Ukraine.
