A ‘Centre of Unity’ for Ukrainians will open in Prague: how it will help refugees

The Unity Centre in Prague will become an important point of support for Ukrainians who have lost their homes due to the war but are seeking stability. This place will help them make important decisions: whether to return or stay, and what status to have in the EU going forward. Find out what specific functions the Unity Centre will perform

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The Czech capital is preparing to open a new space to support Ukrainians — the so-called Unity Centre. This is not a state institution, but an initiative aimed at providing vital information and assistance to refugees who have found themselves in the Czech Republic amid the war, writes Euractiv.

What is the Unity Centre and why is it needed?

The Unity Centre will be an information and consultation hub where Ukrainians can get advice on housing, employment and legalising their status in the country. It will not perform the functions of state structures, but will rather complement and support those who find it difficult to navigate their new reality.

The project is being implemented with the support of the Czech authorities and the European Commission. The opening is expected to take place no earlier than the summer, as the proposed premises in the centre of Prague require major renovation.

How will the Unity Centre help with integration?

According to the European Commission, almost 4.3 million Ukrainians are receiving temporary protection in EU countries. The Czech Republic is one of the three countries with the largest number of refugees from Ukraine, along with Poland and Germany. That is why Prague was a logical choice for the establishment of such a centre.

The Unity Centre project is part of the European Union's strategy to move from temporary protection to sustainable solutions. Temporary protection status has been extended until March 2027, but steps are already being discussed in case military operations in Ukraine cease and a new phase begins — either return home or integration.

👉 Visit Ukraine's migration law specialists will help you navigate the complex legislation of EU countries, choose the best options for legalization or return, and correctly prepare the necessary documents.

The aim of the Centre is to help Ukrainians make an informed decision: to return to Ukraine when peace comes or to stay in the Czech Republic for a longer period. The centre will offer:

▪️ advice on paperwork;

▪️ information on housing and the labour market;

▪️ support in adapting to Czech society;

▪️ guidance on legal steps to take in the future (for example, if you need to switch from temporary protection to another status).

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What are the next steps?

Czech Interior Minister Vit Rakusan said that the Czech Republic is realistic about the situation: many Ukrainians are already making long-term plans in the countries where they have found refuge. At the same time, each EU country will retain the right to determine its own policy towards Ukrainian refugees.

One of the key principles will be to prevent secondary movements — that is, if a person has been granted temporary protection in one EU country, they will not be able to reapply in another.

If you are unsure of your status or would like to learn more about your options, please contact Visit Ukraine specialists. They will help you assess your situation, guide you through the changes and suggest the best legal solutions for you and your family.

Reminder! Ukrainian refugees in the UK are trapped. Their temporary visas are expiring, and the government is not offering any paths to permanent residence. Despite their integration into society and the dangers of returning home, thousands of Ukrainians remain without any guarantees for the future. Find out why London is delaying its decisions.

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