Navigating Displacement: The Ukrainian Refugee Crisis in Europe

Abstract

Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 triggered one of the most significant displacement crises in modern European history, with over 6.3 million Ukrainians fleeing to Europe. The European Union's activation of the Temporary Protection Directive facilitated immediate access to housing, employment, and social security benefits for Ukrainian refugees, setting a stark contrast to past refugee crises. This Special Issue of Global Networks critically examines the European Union's response, the solidarity shown towards Ukrainian migrants, and the evolving nature of forced migration governance. It highlights the innovative practices in housing and support provision and the challenges faced by social workers. The issue also explores refugee experiences and the motivations behind volunteer engagement. It contributes to discussions on migration policy, resilience, and the long-term implications of temporary protection measures for future migration governance and refugee protection in Europe.