Approximately 50% of Ukrainian refugees currently in Poland after the onset of the full-scale russian invasion express a desire to return to Ukraine. These findings are from the study "Path Home: Intentions of Ukrainian Refugees and Migrants to Return," conducted by the Sociological Group Rating for American University Kyiv on the Rating.online platform.
It is worth noting that among the respondents who intend to return to Ukraine, there is a prevalence of women with children who continue their education remotely in Ukrainian schools, as well as elderly individuals whose primary language is Ukrainian. Those expressing a desire to return generally exhibit a stronger Ukrainian identity and hold a more optimistic outlook regarding the conclusion of the war.
Summarizing the research, Volodymyr Vakhitov noted: "It is necessary to encourage Ukrainians to visit their homeland more often, thus facilitating border crossings. Strengthening ties with Ukraine through cultural and educational exchange, as well as greater integration of refugees and migrants into Ukrainian society, could also be effective."
We express our gratitude to Volodymyr Vakhitov and Nataly Zaikafor their incredibly important research and practical recommendations on how the state and the corporate sector can encourage Ukrainians to return home.