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4.38 Million Ukrainians Given Temporary Protection in the EU as of January 2026
The EU has granted temporary protection to 4.38 million Ukrainians. Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic are the primary host countries, reflecting significant migration trends due to the Ukraine conflict.
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Photo: Ukrinform UA
At a glance
- A total of approximately 4.38 million Ukrainians are under temporary protection in the EU.
- Germany is the top host country, accommodating over 1.26 million individuals.
- The Czech Republic has the highest provisional protection rate at 36.4 per 1,000 residents.
- The issuance of new temporary protection decisions fell by 14% in 2025 compared to 2024.
- Ukraine is preparing for possible changes in temporary protection policies due by 2027.
Why it matters
This data reflects the profound and ongoing consequences of the Ukraine conflict on migration dynamics within Europe. It highlights the EU's enduring commitment to sheltering displaced individuals while responding to the evolving needs and realities of Ukrainian citizens abroad.
https://www.ukrinform.ua/rubric-diaspora/4101134-timcasovij-zahist-u-evrosouzi-maut-438-miljona-ukrainciv.html
Temporary Protection Statistics
As of January 31, 2026, Eurostat reports that 4.38 million Ukrainians have received temporary protection across the European Union. This information was shared by Ilona Havronska, Ukraine's Deputy Minister of Social Policy, Families, and Unity for European Integration.
Leading Host Countries
Germany leads in hosting displaced individuals, providing protection to 1,260,230 Ukrainians. Poland follows with around 965,990 protected Ukrainians, while the Czech Republic has granted temporary protection to 397,185 individuals. The Czech Republic exhibits the highest rate of temporary protection per capita in the EU, at 36.4 individuals per 1,000 residents.
Broader Trends
Average statistics reveal that 9.7 Ukrainians per 1,000 residents across the EU are receiving temporary protection. In the last year, EU countries issued 683,395 new temporary protection decisions for Ukrainian nationals, marking a 14% decrease from 2024.
Between late December 2025 and January 2026, the number holding temporary protection increased by 23,110, indicating a sustained, though changing, demand for refuge in Europe.
Return Challenges
The ongoing conflict influences public sentiment regarding the return of displaced Ukrainians. Deputy Minister Havronska highlighted that security concerns are pivotal in determining the likelihood of return for many.
Future Preparations
With the temporary protection status potentially ending in March 2027, the Ukrainian government is actively engaging with EU institutions to plan for future developments. The proposed Unity Network seeks to improve support for Ukrainians abroad, and a new Unity Center is planned in Stockholm to aid the Ukrainian community in Sweden.
Ongoing Humanitarian Response
These initiatives underscore the EU's commitment to supporting displaced individuals and adapting policies to better address the needs of those affected by conflict. The current data on temporary protection not only outlines migration patterns but also reflects ongoing humanitarian efforts across Europe.
Source: Ukrinform UA
This report is maintained as a live newsroom article. Headlines and top paragraphs may be tightened when fresh reporting changes the clearest angle.
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