The European Commission has proposed an extension of the Temporary Protection Directive (TPD) for Ukrainian refugees, extending their legal protections until March 2027. This decision comes in light of the continuing instability in Ukraine following Russia's invasion, which began in February 2022. The TPD was initially designed as a short-term measure, intended to offer immediate support to those fleeing the conflict.

Originally, the directive allowed for a two-year extension, with an initial termination date set for March 2025. However, following a reassessment of the situation, the Commission extended this deadline to 2026, and now to March 2027. Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, Magnus Brunner, emphasized that this extension provides legal certainty for both EU member states and the refugee population, thereby alleviating pressure on national asylum systems.

He stated that developments in Ukraine will continue to guide the future of the scheme.

In conjunction with this extension, the Commission is encouraging member states to develop transition pathways for Ukrainian refugees, suggesting that there is potential for the temporary protection to be concluded before the 2027 deadline if conditions allow.

The Commission advocates for the provision of more permanent legal statuses for refugees, such as national or EU residence permits that would facilitate work, study, or long-term living arrangements.

Moreover, the proposal includes the option for refugees to undertake short visits to Ukraine, referred to as 'go-and-see' trips, to evaluate the viability of returning home.

Such initiatives would align with voluntary return programs that will be coordinated with Ukrainian authorities to address the needs of returning individuals, particularly vulnerable cases such as children or those requiring medical care.

As of March 2025, over 4.26 million Ukrainians were still under the EU’s temporary protection scheme, with ongoing studies indicating a consistent desire among refugees to return to their home country, a trend not typically observed in prolonged displacement scenarios.

Additionally, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced an extra €3 billion in EU funding, aimed at implementing the Pact on Migration from 2025 to 2027, which includes support for EU member states hosting Ukrainians under temporary protection.

To facilitate the integration of Ukrainian refugees and to assist with potential returns, the Commission plans to establish 'unity hubs' throughout the EU. These hubs will serve as information and support centers, a concept originally proposed by Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Chernyshov.

Similar initiatives have been implemented in Germany and Spain and are currently being developed in seven other EU member states.

A special envoy for Ukrainian refugees in the EU is also anticipated to be appointed, with the role focused on coordinating with member states and international organizations, including the International Organization for Migration and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

The appointment of this envoy is expected to be finalized at the next College meeting.