A new report by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and Ukraine’s Commissioner for Human Rights reveals that only 7% of internally displaced persons in Ukraine intend to return to their permanent residences within the next six months. The survey, titled ‘Status of Protection in Ukraine’ for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and returnees, underscores the challenges faced by displaced families and highlights the long-term nature of their displacement.
The study found that the average age of those considering a return is 57 years, indicating that many displaced individuals have been in temporary housing for extended periods. This demographic suggests that the majority of displaced persons are middle-aged or older, reflecting a trend of long-term displacement rather than temporary migration due to the conflict.
According to the report, the main reasons preventing a return to their original homes include ongoing security concerns, economic instability, and uncertainty about the future in their regions of origin. These factors continue to deter many IDPs from considering a permanent return, despite the availability of government-provided housing and support programs.
The findings highlight the need for continued international and national support in addressing the needs of displaced persons and developing policies that enable safe and voluntary returns. Officials and humanitarian organizations stress the importance of creating conditions that ensure the safety and well-being of all displaced individuals, both in temporary shelters and in their places of origin.