New publication: MPG co-authors groundbreaking study on Ukrainian refugees

The Migration Policy Group is proud to announce the publication of a major new article coauthored by our Head of Research, Dr. Başak Yavçan, in International Migration Review  – one of the most prestigious journals in the field of migration and integration.

Article title: “Ukrainian Voices: Surveying the Spatial and Socio-Economic Trajectories of Ukrainian Refugees across Europe”
Read it (Open Access): Click here.

Drawing on the Voice of Ukraine (VoU) survey  –  a longitudinal study of over 12,000 Ukrainian refugees –  this article provides one of the most detailed cross-country analyses to date on how Ukrainian refugees are moving, settling, and integrating across Europe.

Key Insights

• Most refugees remain in their first host country, showing unexpected “spatial inertia.”
• Integration outcomes vary widely, shaped by national policies and the unique demographic profile of this refugee group – largely highly educated women with children.
• Countries with higher MIPEX scores (e.g., Germany) offer better-supported, gradual integration through education, skills recognition, and language support.
• In contrast, countries like Poland facilitate quicker labour market access but with fewer support systems.
• Successful integration depends not just on legal frameworks but also on practical enablers: diploma recognition, housing, childcare, and community networks.

Why This Matters

This research is vital for:

• Policymakers building effective, long-term integration strategies
• Migrant-led organisations and NGOs pushing for inclusive public services
• Academics and researchers studying forced displacement and integration
• Civil society actors supporting refugees on the ground

At MPG, we believe effective integration starts with listening to refugees and crafting evidence-based policy. This article embodies that commitment.

Now available open access: Read the full article.