More than half of Ukrainian refugees plan to return from abroad to Ukraine, according to the results of a study by Vox Ukraine.
Various estimates suggest that there are currently around 6 million Ukrainian refugees abroad. The majority of them maintain a connection with Ukraine and plan to return. Many who left in the spring of 2022 have already returned.
At the same time, most of those who have returned to Ukraine want to stay, with only 7% planning to leave again, according to the study. As of July-August 2023, 63% of those who left the country have already returned. Among those who remained abroad, 64% of respondents plan to return to Ukraine.
Factors such as the presence of parents and/or remote work opportunities in Ukraine, as well as a better security situation, were significant factors attracting people back, while financial difficulties abroad served as a significant factor pushing individuals to return.
The study also found that 12% of respondents received information from the Ukrainian government that influenced their decision to return, and this factor significantly affects the likelihood of return.
Regarding the employment of Ukrainian refugees abroad, 53% of them found work, with 9% working online for Ukrainian companies and a third working in the country of residence. However, 28% of those employed mentioned that their work abroad is less qualified than in Ukraine.
