Ukraine aims to bring back up to 10 million refugees from the EU, with El Pais outlining the key strategies for this initiative.

Ukraine aims to bring back up to 10 million refugees from the EU: El Pais reveals key methods

Between six and ten million Ukrainians have found themselves abroad since the onset of the full-scale war. They continue to reside there, but Ukraine is advocating for the return of its citizens "home"—particularly through measures such as halting assistance to refugees and restricting access to consular services for men of conscription age.

To tackle the challenge of repatriating citizens, the Ministry of National Unity has been established, and the first reading of the recognition of dual citizenship—which has been prohibited until now—has been approved, as reported by El Pais.

Sociologist Olga Pishulina from the Razumkov Centre states that the return of individuals hinges on meeting specific conditions, some of which are currently unattainable. This relates to security concerns, as the war persists, air raid alerts continue, and certain risks remain.

"However, a stable situation regarding economic and social opportunities is also necessary. Those living abroad are also looking for a quality education and healthcare system," the article notes.

Ukrainian journalist Elena Babakova points out that another obstacle to returning is the high cost of renting housing, as well as the feeling of being "outsiders" among those experiencing the war directly in Ukraine.

A study by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, published in November, indicates that 61% of refugees still wish to return, but only when the situation improves.

"Reasons for returning include the inability to find a job that matches their qualifications in the places where they currently reside [in Europe], a lack of belonging, and the presence of elderly parents and other relatives in Ukraine," the media reports.

At the same time, it is reported that the Ukrainian government acknowledges in its "demographic strategy" that between 1.3 to 3.3 million people may not return.