Ilona Gavronska: The Unity Hub in Berlin has welcomed its first 500 Ukrainians

Since its opening, the Ukrainian Unity Hub in Berlin has already welcomed 500 visitors. This was reported by Ilona Gavronska, Deputy Minister of Social Policy, Family, and Unity of Ukraine for European Integration, in a comment to Ukrinform.

According to her, the Unity Hub has already become a kind of magnet for Ukrainians in Berlin, who turn to the center both for consultations and to stay in touch with Ukraine.

“As of now, we see that consultations regarding the Pension Fund of Ukraine, as well as consultations on staying in Germany and returning to Ukraine, are in the highest demand. People also eagerly visited the exhibition of works by Ukrainian artists held at the Hub and showed interest in events for children and youth,” emphasized Ilona Gavronska.

The Deputy Minister noted that Unity Hub Berlin is open to Ukrainian organizations, which can hold their own events, presentations, and initiatives there. She added that it is a space where people can come together, build social connections, and feel a bond with home.

Ilona Gavronska also reminded everyone that a wide range of services is available at the Unity Hub. In particular, the Pension Fund of Ukraine provides advice on pensions, housing subsidies, benefits, and social assistance; UNHCR offers counseling for those returning to Ukraine; and the Ukrainian ICMPD (International Center for Mgration Policy Development) provides practical assistance regarding stays in Germany and pre-consular preparation in cooperation with the Ukrainian consulate.

In addition, the passport service of the State Enterprise “Document” provides advice on document processing services, while representatives of the Resilience Centers provide information on the services available in Ukraine.

“It is essential for us that Ukrainians abroad have access to reliable information, particularly regarding voluntary return and reintegration, understand the opportunities available in Ukraine, and can receive support regardless of their location. That is why we are working to strengthen the Ministry’s communication capacity to create effective channels of interaction with Ukrainians around the world,” emphasized Ilona Gavronska.

According to her, the Ministry is collaborating with international partners in this area to develop effective tools for communicating with and supporting Ukrainians abroad. In particular, the development of communication capacity is supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Ukraine, with support from the governments of Denmark and Japan.