At the beginning of 2026, the number of Ukrainian refugees worldwide reached 5.6 million, while the pace of departures by new citizens slowed compared to the previous year. The study demonstrates a gradual stabilization of intentions to return. However, a significant part of migrants is already preparing the ground for legalization in the EU after the expiration of temporary protection. This is reported by the Center for Economic Strategy (CES).
According to analysts, the bulk of refugees (4 million people) left through Ukraine’s western borders. Another 1.3 million people are in Russia or Belarus, and 277 thousand reached Europe in transit through these countries.
An interesting trend in 2025 was a reduction in the net outflow of the population: the difference between those who left and entered through western checkpoints was 303 thousand people, 34% less than in 2024.
Who remains abroad:
- Women: make up 40% of the total.
- Men: their share increased from 27% to 29%.
- Children: 31% of all refugees.
- Young people: more than half (56%) are under 35 years old.
At the same time, there is a tendency for the older generation (45+) to return, while young people (18−22) are more likely to choose to remain in exile. Most migrants are from Kyiv and the region (24%), as well as from the eastern and southern regions (52%).
Germany remains the leader in the number of accepted Ukrainians – 23% of refugees live there, and the country is more often chosen by young people. Poland takes second place (19.5%), being the most attractive for the 35−49 age group.
