In March 2025, we enter the third year of the extension of temporary protection for all individuals who fled Ukraine due to the international armed conflict. The Republic of Serbia activated the temporary protection mechanism for the first time by a Government Decision on March 18, 2022, covering individuals forced to leave Ukraine as their country of origin or habitual residence, or those evacuated from Ukraine, who, due to the current situation, cannot return to permanent and secure living conditions. While temporary protection provided an urgent solution, the key issue now is finding a more permanent and stable status for displaced persons from Ukraine.
According to UNHCR data, there are currently 6.91 million displaced persons from Ukraine, with 6.35 million residing in the EU. In Serbia, between 1,500 and 2,000 individuals with temporary protection were present in 2024.
Temporary protection allows for the swift and effective protection of groups of people without conducting individual procedures, which is particularly important in crisis situations. Compared to the asylum process, granting temporary protection is significantly faster and provides immediate access to basic rights. As of February 1, 2024, following amendments to the Law on Foreigners and the Law on the Employment of Foreigners, individuals with temporary protection in Serbia have the right to free access to the labor market without requiring special work permits, representing a significant step towards economic independence.
However, challenges remain in accessing education and social protection. While individuals under temporary protection have the right to primary and secondary education, access to higher education is hindered by high tuition fees and the lack of student housing opportunities. Additionally, although there is access to emergency medical care, health insurance for these individuals remains their own financial responsibility, as their healthcare access is regulated similarly to that of other foreigners.
A particular issue is the legal vacuum created when extending temporary protection, as the Government’s decision often comes at the last minute, leaving many without formal legal security and valid personal documents. This disruption primarily affects employed individuals, who risk losing their formal employment due to delays in document issuance.
Given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, it is essential to consider alternative options for a more extended stay for those under temporary protection. Some of these options include:
It is crucial for Serbia, in line with European Union practices, to provide sustainable solutions for these individuals. The right to a stable status and integration must be a priority to ensure that Ukrainian refugees can live with dignity and contribute to the society in which they currently reside. The Belgrade Centre for Human Rights, as it has for the past 14 years, will continue to provide legal assistance, integration support, and advocate for the improvement of the rights of refugees, asylum seekers, and people on the move.
