Research report
English
2026
Navigating return during active conflict
A 14-month mixed-methods study on the challenges, well-being, and reintegration experiences of Ukrainians who returned home during active conflict after living under Temporary Protection.
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Full report
English
Research brief
English
Research brief
English
About this publication
Strategic area
Social inclusion
Strategic area
Social inclusion
Primary topic
Return migration
Publication year
2026
Geographic focus
Ukraine · EU · Netherlands
Available languages
Summary
This research examines how displaced Ukrainians access mental health and psychosocial support in three Dutch regions. It highlights regional coordination gaps, informal support structures, and barriers that affect continuity of care.
Key findings
01
People returning to Ukraine face layered uncertainty around safety, housing, income, and future mobility.
02
Mental well-being is closely connected to the ability to rebuild routines, access services, and maintain family stability.
03
Temporary Protection experiences abroad continue to influence expectations, decisions, and reintegration after return.
04
Policy responses need to account for circular mobility rather than assuming return is permanent or linear.
Why this matter
Policymakers and support organisations need a more realistic view of return migration so that assistance can reflect the unstable and often reversible nature of return during wartime.
Methodology summary
The report presents findings from a 14-month mixed-methods study. It combines survey data and interviews with Ukrainians who returned home during active conflict after living under Temporary Protection.
Data scope
14-month mixed-methods study · survey data · interviews with returnees
About this publication
Strategic area
Social inclusion
Primary topic
Return migration
Country / region
Ukraine · EU · Netherlands
Publication year
2026
Language
Research partners
Prepared for
Funding partner
Share
Download research
About this publication
Strategic area
Social inclusion
Primary topic
Return migration
Country / region
Ukraine · EU · Netherlands
Publication year
2026
Language
Research partners
Prepared for
Funding partner
topics
Return & reintegration
Healthcare access
Safety
non
