IOM: Ukrainian returnees stabilizing, rebuilding focus shifts to reintegration

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has published new data on Ukrainians repatriating home, highlighting steady return trends and the need for reintegration strategies as part of Ukraine’s national recovery. 

“The voluntary, safe, and dignified return of refugees from Ukraine — and their sustainable reintegration — represents a critical step for Ukrainians rebuilding their lives, and a strategic pillar of Ukraine’s national recovery,” the study’s summary reads.

The report analyzes who is returning, from where, and to which locations. It examines the reasons behind returns, factors that support or hinder the process, living conditions after returning, and the sustainability of these returns.

“These insights aim to inform policy and programming, enabling stakeholders to better anticipate future return trends and support needs among those who return to Ukraine from abroad,” the study’s summary reads.

Findings show that the number of Ukrainians returning from abroad has stabilized. Since September 2023, approximately 100,000 people have returned every six months, typically as individuals or parts of families rather than entire households.

Returnees from abroad tend to go back to less war-affected regions, primarily in western and central Ukraine. The main reasons for returning are the desire to be home and with family. Access to work and housing are also important but secondary factors.

The full report is available via the following link.