Ukrainian displaced youth: Identifying information needs and aspirations - A survey report.
2022
Ukrainian displaced youth
Identifying information needs and aspirations - A survey report
According to the UNHCR, almost 7.53 million refugees from Ukraine had been recorded across Europe by 30 September 2022. Among them many vulnerable groups with special protection needs, such as women, children, unaccompanied minors, and young people. This situation requires coordinated intersectoral and transnational responses to support access to rights and integration in their hosting communities.
In the period from 20 April to 31 July 2022, the European Youth Information and Counselling Agency (ERYICA) and the Ukrainian Center in Barcelona, Spain (project of the Association of Ukrainians “Djerelo”) surveyed 358 Ukrainian youth between 13-35 years old. The survey method combined face-to-face and online surveying. Over 70% of respondents were women, and 70% were between 15-25 years old. The data gathered was analysed by experts from the Ukrainian community. The conclusions and recommendations have been drawn in cooperation with ERYICA.
The survey results were presented in September 2022 at an event organised in Sibenik, Croatia, in the framework of the ERYICA YinfoPeers project and in an online café organised by ERYICA in the framework of its Partnership with the Council of Europe.
The survey highlights six areas in which it is crucial for youth information and counselling services to be active and aware, followed by our recommendations:
General considerations when working with young refugees.
Needs and interests considering the intended period of stay.
Needs and interests according to the demographic group.
Tips for effective youth information outreach, support, and guidance.
Mental health support.
Challenges in obtaining information and how to overcome them.
We hope the insights and conclusions drawn from this study will help youth information providers and other stakeholders grasp ways of adapting their services to the needs of young refugees across Europe. Our most sincere aim is to support their transition to adulthood more effectively and their involvement and integration in the hosting communities. This study is just a first milestone of a series of further actions that we believe will need to take place to ensure a successful youth information response to the needs of young refugees, not only from Ukraine but also from other geographies.
This study is the product of the Partnership Agreement between the Council of Europe and the European Youth Information and Counselling Agency (ERYICA). The Partnership aims to promote and develop European cooperation within the field of youth information and counselling. The opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of the Council of Europe.
