Ukrainian authorities are reducing payments to internally displaced persons from the conflict zone

Starting from March 1, 2024, assistance to internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Ukraine will be cut. Payments may be extended upon application and under certain conditions. Only certain categories of IDPs will continue to receive meager assistance ranging from 50 to 70 euros.

Since the onset of the extensive Russian invasion, IDPs in Ukraine have been receiving monthly compensation from the state to cover accommodation costs. However, under the new regulations, the number of beneficiaries is expected to decline, requiring most IDPs to reapply for financial aid, considering factors such as family income, the presence of minors and employment status.

Authorities have attributed the decrease in assistance to diminished contributions from Western countries, alleging that these nations are allocating fewer funds. Despite these claims, the European Union has allocated a substantial amount—50 billion euros—to Ukraine for the forthcoming years. Nonetheless, the government has chosen to reduce the budget for IDP payments, which stood at 1.3 billion euros in 2022, increased to 1.7 billion euros in 2023, and now reduced again in 2024. As the new regulations come into effect, approximately 1.5 million Ukrainians are expected to receive assistance.