Slovakia launches the 2025-2026 Refugee Response Plan for Ukrainian refugees

The Ministry of Interior of Slovakia hosted the launch event of the 2025-2026 Refugee Response Plan (RRP) on Tuesday, 18 February 2025. This plan, coordinated by UNHCR, in collaboration with 19 humanitarian partners, aims to provide systematic support to Ukrainian refugees and their host communities in Slovakia. More than half of the participating partners are national organizations involved in providing humanitarian assistance to refugees.

State Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Ms. Lucia Kurilovská, addressed the current situation of vulnerable individuals residing in asylum facilities. She emphasized that suitable housing conditions and care are being provided, taking into account specific needs and vulnerabilities. Kurilovská highlighted the shift from emergency response to addressing long-term sustainability for those seeking temporary protection in Slovakia.

"We are working intensively with local governments to enroll refugee children in schools and ensure access to healthcare," Kurilovská stated. She also mentioned ongoing coordination with the Central Office of Labor, Social Affairs, and Family to protect the rights of minor refugees and provide adequate support.

Ms. Danijela Popović-Efendić, Head of UNHCR in Slovakia emphasized the plan's focus on promoting self-reliance among refugees. "When refugees receive help in accessing employment, they can integrate and contribute positively to Slovak society and the economy," she said.

The event also featured a video showcasing two refugee success stories, illustrating the impact of inclusion and empowerment initiatives. One story highlighted an artist who has started classes for children and adults, while the other focused on a psychologist who has become self-employed, offering mental health support to the refugee community.

The 2025-2026 RRP builds on the efforts of the humanitarian community in 2024, which joined forces to support the Slovak government in assisting refugees. As the situation evolves from an emergency response to a long-term integration effort, the plan represents a collaborative approach to address the ongoing needs of Ukrainian refugees in Slovakia.