EU Commission to Promote Residence and Work Rights for Ukrainian Refugees

Ukrainian refugees gathered at the Medyka border checkpoint in Poland. [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Song Seung-seop] The European Union (EU) Commission is pushing for measures to guarantee residence and work rights for Ukrainian refugees.

According to major foreign media on the 2nd, the EU Commission proposed the activation of a 'Temporary Protection Directive' to provide effective support to those fleeing from Ukraine. This system grants residence permits within EU member states and opportunities to participate in the labor market. It also allows access to education, social welfare, and medical benefits.

Guidelines will also be presented to manage the entry of refugees in regions bordering Ukraine. Through these guidelines, member states will be recommended to establish special emergency support channels for refugees. It is also emphasized that under the Schengen Agreement, which guarantees free movement across European borders, the admission of non-EU citizens and the simplification of entry and exit procedures can be facilitated.

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the EU Commission, stated, "Europe welcomes all those who have fled Putin's bombs," adding, "We will provide protection measures for those seeking refuge and assist those looking for safe ways to return home."

This proposal will take immediate effect once adopted after approval by member states. Member states have already expressed broad support for such measures. Discussions are scheduled to take place at the meeting of justice and interior ministers of member states on the 3rd. The validity period is one year and can be extended depending on the situation.

Meanwhile, the EU Commission estimates that more than 650,000 people have fled to EU member states since Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.