Millions of euros have been allocated to Lithuania – Ukrainians who have escaped the war will continue to be helped
“I am glad that the Council of Europe Development Bank has heard our request for quality reception of people fleeing the war in Ukraine. I hope that the funds allocated to Lithuania will increase the possibilities of our country to implement more reception and asylum policies for foreigners, ”says the Minister of Social Security and Labor Monika Navickienė.
According to Minister M. Navickienė, taking into account the drastic change in the situations of migration flows in Lithuania, as well as the geopolitical situation in the country, it is urgent to invest in the development of new premises, adaptation of existing capacities and improvement of reception conditions.
After Russia invaded Ukraine in late February, European countries are hosting war refugees. According to the number of refugees per capita, Lithuania ranks third among all EU countries. 52 thousand people are registered in Lithuania. refugees from Ukraine, which accounts for about 2 percent. of the country’s population and about half of all foreigners. More than 40 percent. children of all refugees.
The temporary accommodation of refugees is coordinated by the Ministry of Social Security and Labor. A compensation mechanism has been set up for residents receiving war refugees.
The Ministry recalls that the owners of housing and other living quarters that have accommodated Ukrainian war refugees can apply for compensation from April. More than 180 claims were received in April. According to these requests will be paid almost 300 thousand. euros.
In May, the circle of available accommodation and compensation recipients was further expanded. Compensation is available not only to residents and businesses, but also to the non-governmental sector: religious communities, public institutions, associations. Compensation will also be available for accommodation in administrative and auxiliary farm facilities adapted to the lives of people fleeing the war. Compensation can be used not only by homeowners, but also by persons who manage the use of housing, tenants who accept Ukrainians free of charge, if the consent of the homeowner is obtained.