In order to ensure maximum integration of internally displaced persons (IDPs) into host communities, it is critical to shape the state policy in the sector of their social protection.

Deputy Minister of Social Policy for European Integration Serhii Nizhynskyy announced during the presentation of the results of a survey by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) on the situation of IDPs in Ukraine with the participation of representatives of the Ministry of Veterans Affairs, Temporarily Occupied Territories and Internally Displaced Persons.

"The IOM survey helps to analyze the real situation in which internally displaced persons found themselves and allows to identify needs that further help to shape state social protection policy and make effective decisions to improve the lives of this category of citizens," the Deputy Minister stressed.

Moreover, he said that streamlining and completing the databases and data systems of IDPs would make it possible to clearly understand the needs, identify the directions and priorities already developed by the Government.

"Quarterly research and stakeholder involvement in the analysis of the survey results will enable us to speak the same language and advance step by step in solving urgent issues for internally displaced persons," summed up Serhii Nizhynskyy.

Background

Since March 2016, the IOM has been assessing the needs of IDPs in Ukraine by conducting a regular survey called the "National Monitoring System for IDPs in Ukraine" (NMS).

The purpose of the NMS is to support the Government of Ukraine in collecting and analyzing information on the socio-economic characteristics of IDPs and their households, as well as the challenges they face. The survey contains information on the socio-economic data of IDPs and their households, trends and intentions for displacement, employment and income situation, as well as access by IDPs to social services and assistance in 24 regions of Ukraine and Kyiv city.