4.38 Million Ukrainians Hold Temporary Protection in the EU

The latest figures from Eurostat reveal that the number of Ukrainian asylum seekers granted temporary protection in EU countries has reached 4,380,000. This statistic was shared by Ilona Havronska, Ukraine's Deputy Minister of Social Policy, Families, and Unity for European Integration.

The largest populations of Ukrainians with temporary protection reside in Germany, totaling 1,260,230 individuals, followed by Poland with 965,990 and the Czech Republic with 397,185. The Czech Republic has the highest rate of temporary protection per 1,000 residents at 36.4, while Poland and Slovakia also report significant figures at 26.5 and 25.8 respectively.

In contrast, the overall EU average stands at 9.7 per 1,000 residents. Throughout 2025, EU countries issued 683,395 new temporary protection decisions for Ukrainian citizens, marking a 14% decrease compared to 2024.

As of late January 2026, the number of Ukrainians holding temporary protection increased by 23,110 from the end of December 2025. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine continues to significantly influence the decisions of many Ukrainians regarding their potential return home.

Deputy Minister Havronska emphasized that the security situation remains a critical factor for those considering a return to Ukraine. Preparations are underway for potential changes as the temporary protection status may conclude in March 2027.

The Ukrainian government is in constant communication with EU institutions and international partners to develop strategic frameworks for responding to these changes. Havronska outlined the commitment to ensuring Ukrainian citizens abroad are treated with dignity.

The Ukrainian government aims to foster an environment that enables these individuals to realize their potential while choosing when and how to reintegrate into Ukraine. There is a dedicated effort to enhance communication channels with citizens overseas and prepare for potential returns.

This includes developing a Unity Network, establishing Centers and Spaces of Unity, and launching a digital platform to provide verified information to Ukrainians abroad. Furthermore, Ukraine and Sweden are finalizing plans for a Unity Center in Stockholm, which is set to become a key hub for supporting the Ukrainian community in Sweden.