Since the beginning of the year, another 400,000 residents have left Ukraine, despite the reduction of benefits in Europe, according to the National Bank of Ukraine

Since the beginning of January until August 19, 2024, the number of Ukrainian migrants abroad increased by nearly 400,000 people, reaching 6.7 million.

This was reported by the National Bank of Ukraine in its monthly macroeconomic and monetary review for September 2024.

The report includes a list of countries where the most Ukrainian refugees have settled:

• Germany — 1.1 million people;
• Poland — 976,000 people;
• Czechia — 361,000 people.

At the same time, the National Bank noted that recipient countries are gradually tightening conditions for the stay of Ukrainian citizens.

For example, in Poland, the conditions are being created for a transition from temporary protection to temporary residence. As of July 2024, the one-time assistance of 300 zlotys for accommodation and the 40 zlotys per day for living and food in private homes have been canceled for most people.

In Czechia, a limit has been introduced for staying in government-provided humanitarian housing — no more than 150 days. After this period, standard rental conditions apply.

In Germany, there is the lowest employment rate among Ukrainians in the EU due to significant social benefits, which are now being reconsidered. There will also be stricter responses to refusals to work.

The Ukrainian authorities have made it clear that they are interested in encouraging Ukrainians to return home, both to increase tax revenues and boost the state budget, as well as for mobilization into the army and to support the labor market, which continues to face challenges.

“The shortage of workers, especially skilled ones, remains significant. After a slight decrease, likely caused by a decline in demand due to disruptions in business operations from energy supply issues, the shortage of skilled workers reached a new peak according to the Institute for Economic Research survey. According to the Razumkov Center survey, 60% of employers reported a labor shortage at their enterprises,” the National Bank’s review states.