The Czech Republic will soon establish special centers to help Ukrainian refugees return to their home country. This initiative was formalized on Monday with the signing of a joint declaration by Czech Interior Minister Vít Rakušan and Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Chernyshov.
The signing took place at the Czech government’s residence, following a meeting between Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who has been on an official visit to the Czech Republic since Sunday.
“The Czech Republic has taken in the highest number of Ukrainian refugees per capita, and they are integrating very well. However, further steps are needed to continue improving the situation and to provide an opportunity for those who wish to return to Ukraine. I believe the creation of these centers will enhance integration into Czech society and can support voluntary return when the time comes,” said Prime Minister Petr Fiala.
As of the end of March, more than 364,000 refugees with temporary protection status were residing in the Czech Republic, according to the Ministry of the Interior.
The new centers are designed to offer refugees essential information regarding return options, as well as legal assistance and other support services. The government’s aim is to encourage refugees to return to Ukraine and assist with the country’s post-war reconstruction efforts. Similar centers are also planned in Germany and Poland.
Rakušan had previously discussed the initiative with his Ukrainian counterpart in January. “We understand that victory over Russia and the post-war reconstruction of the country are impossible without the return of its citizens. We fully support the intention to encourage Ukrainian citizens to return and the creation of these centers,” Rakušan stated at the time.
Ukrainian refugees in the EU benefit from temporary protection status, which grants access to public health insurance, education, and the labor market. This status has been extended until March of next year, with further developments expected in the coming months. In addition, the Czech Republic offers a special long-term residence option for refugees, as authorized by a law signed by President Petr Pavel in February.
