Asselborn said another structure would be required in order to accommodate the influx of refugees fleeing Ukraine, without impacting Luxembourg’s existing immigration procedure. In addition to the current accommodation, another hall could be used to house 500 to 1,000 more people. The minister said the location of this second structure was not yet confirmed, but authorities wanted to keep people in one place to facilitate coordination.
However, at present it was difficult to estimate how many more refugees would be coming, as well as the proportion of refugees who would be housed by private individuals offering up their homes. The Ministry of Family and Integration is handling enquiries from Luxembourg residents wishing to offer accommodation, as well as carrying out the relevant checks.
In response to accusations that 60-70 people had been forced out of the Shuk structure in Kirchberg to make way for incoming Ukrainian refugees, Asselborn clarified that it was easier to resettle the other refugees. The Shuk structure was better equipped to act as a reception point for people fleeing Ukraine, he said.
Asselborn also appealed for all private initiatives to be registered, including the use of private vehicles to collect people from Ukraine. He said the risk of not registering could result in refugees arriving in Luxembourg without a space set aside for them. Anyone planning such an initiative should register it with the ministry in order to avoid confusion.
The Minister said they knew of at least 400 further refugees, who are still currently in Ukraine but plan to come to Luxembourg.
The Minister reminded those that have already arrived in Luxembourg to register themselves and wait for an appointment to be granted temporary protection. This protection is to apply to people who have lived in Ukraine at the time when the war broke out and will be valid until 4 March 2023. The authorities expect that the procedure will take two hours per applicant. The goal is that 40 adults will be able to present themselves at the Immigration Office per day.
The authorities will also assist people who lived in Ukraine but have a second home country that they wish to return to.
Temporary protection will grant refugees the right to work, housing, healthcare, and support for buying clothes. The Ministry of Education is also currently reviewing its options to guarantee the education of children.
The authorities also plan to offer psychological support, as children in particular have been traumatised when they were forced to leave their fathers behind. Men between 18 and 60 are prohibited from leaving Ukraine.
Regarding pets, Asselborn explained that it is unfortunately not possible to accept pets in public shelters. However, the Minister assured that the National Reception Office will do its best to accommodate the animals. Asselborn stressed that the authorities can understand that children in particular do not want to be separated from their pets in these difficult times.
Finally, Asselborn stressed that neither Luxembourg nor NATO are at war with the Russian people. Any discrimination against Russians in Luxembourg must be avoided, the Minister stated.
Ukrainian refugees: Important information and useful resources upon arriving in Luxembourg
