Prague, 4 February 2025 – Today, key initiatives for the sustainable integration of Ukrainian refugees in Czechia were officially presented as part of the 2025 Refugee Response Plan (RRP). The plan was developed by RRP partner organizations in collaboration with the Czech government. It reflects the result of close cooperation between government institutions, non-governmental organizations, and UN agencies, offering a comprehensive framework for the protection, support, and integration of refugees.

Photos: UN/Šárka Fazlagić

Aligned with the Czech government’s strategic measures for holders of temporary protection from Ukraine, the plan aims to strengthen cohesion between Ukrainian refugees and host communities. UN organizations and their partners are jointly requesting $41.1 million to address various needs, ranging from accessible housing to social integration.

Kateřina Sequensová, Director General of the Non-European Countries, Economic and Development Cooperation Section, stated: "The 2025 Refugee Response Plan marks a significant step in enhancing the long-term integration of refugees into Czech society. It is built on clear coordination between state and non-profit institutions, focusing on accessible housing, quality education, and dignified employment opportunities. These elements are essential for refugees to fully settle in our country and become valuable members of the community. Thanks to the UN plan, we now have a robust framework for creating a shared future where solidarity is not just a slogan, but a genuine practice."

Government Commissioner for Human Rights, Klára Šimáčková Laurenčíková, added:
"The Czech Republic is a democratic country committed to upholding human rights for all its residents. The arrival of 400,000 refugees has posed significant challenges for housing, schools, healthcare, and social services. Through the extraordinary efforts of all ministries, municipalities, regions, non-governmental organizations, and volunteers, we have successfully facilitated the integration of most refugees, who now sustain themselves independently and contribute more than twice the amount spent on their support back into the state budget. The expertise and financial assistance within the RRP provide essential support without which refugee adaptation and integration in Czechia would not be possible. We deeply appreciate the opportunity to continue strengthening the protection of fundamental human rights for refugees through the RRP framework."

Ajmal Khybari, Head of UNHCR Czechia, emphasized the significance of Czech solidarity:
"The Czech Republic has demonstrated exceptional solidarity and support for Ukrainian refugees. At the same time, the Ukrainian community has shown resilience and proven to be a valuable asset to society. In RRP 2025, we are taking integration to the next level—focusing on sustainable, long-term solutions that not only provide safety but also enable refugees to fully utilize their potential and actively engage in life in Czechia."

Long-Term Solutions in Key Areas for Better Integration

The 2025 plan builds on established practices and emphasizes long-term solutions in key areas such as affordable housing, inclusive education, employment opportunities, healthcare, and mental health support.

A central focus is improving access to education and employment, helping refugees become active members of society. The plan also prioritizes stable housing, which is vital for social inclusion. It includes measures to transition refugees from emergency accommodations to long-term housing solutions, benefiting both refugees and other vulnerable groups.

In healthcare, the plan focuses on prevention and accessibility, with a special emphasis on involving refugee professionals to strengthen service capacity.

Mental health and community cohesion are also central priorities. New programs will enhance access to psychosocial support, with community centers playing a pivotal role.

"To maintain and strengthen social cohesion, we must focus on supporting teenagers in the coming year. We need to offer them a promising future, whether they decide to stay in Czechia or return to Ukraine. It is crucial to empower them with skills and education, ensuring they do not drop out of school prematurely for low-skilled jobs. We must work together to improve access to secondary education and create alternative learning opportunities," said Blanka Tollarová, representative of the Consortium of Organizations Working with Migrants.

2025 Plan: A Path to Sustainable Integration and Stronger International Solidarity

The 2025 Refugee Response Plan seeks to create a cohesive, sustainable environment where refugees can realize their full potential and actively contribute to life in Czechia.

As the war in Ukraine enters its fourth year, the UN and its partners are launching the 2025 Refugee Response Plan appeal, part of a broader initiative across 11 European countries to address the humanitarian needs of Ukrainian refugees. The plan also emphasizes the critical role of international solidarity in sustaining vital humanitarian assistance to Ukraine in 2025.

The updated plan reflects increased involvement from national governments and local organizations, highlighting the need for greater investment in the socio-economic integration of refugees and their full inclusion within host communities.