Ukrainian Voice UK

Today, the 24^th of February, is the longest day of the year for Ukrainians. It started four years ago and has continued across 1460 days – without end. And this, longest of days, is merely a part of the 4380 days – 12 years – since 2014, and the beginning of the Russian war of aggression against the people and nation of Ukraine.

Much has changed across the four years since the start of the full-scale invasion. And much has not…

Global events, spurred on by the war’s sudden escalation, continued at a pace. Global news cycles followed suit, and the ongoing war in Ukraine slowly slipped from the everyday consciousness of the general public. But behind the scenes, many of those working to support displaced Ukrainians have worked on. Much progress has been made to support Ukrainians in the UK – but much work remains to be done.

As the war enters it’s fifth year, since the catastrophic escalation of 2022, questions still remain about the long-term future of those displaced. Short-term temporary protection, intended for speed and accessibility, is now beginning to show its limitations as the war stretches on.

We continue to work towards realistic, fair, practical, solutions – that serve the needs of Ukrainians, and Ukraine, in the longer term. Through research, evidence, and advocacy, we hope to help shape the conversation, to ensure that the needs of Ukrainians are met, and that they can plan their lives with confidence and stability.

We welcome the announcement, today, of an extension of the application period for the Ukraine Permission Extension Schemes, from 28 to 90 days.* Which will hopefully address some of the practical challenges, when important deadlines for contracts and visas coincide. We also welcome the government’s commitment to provide clarity for Ukrainians in the near future.

We continue to advocate and lobby for the community, to enable the best options of stability to rebuild lives for those who cannot or will not be able to return.

Slava Ukrayini!

*N.B. The new 90‑day period has not started yet. The current 28-day period remains. Until the 90-day period is confirmed, anyone applying more than 28 days before their permission ends may face delays or be refused permission for not meeting the current requirements.