The management of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) presented an impressive analysis of the refugee crisis, which places Bulgaria in an extremely positive light. The report reveals the country's extensive humanitarian efforts during the conflict in Ukraine, highlighting its key role in the European migration context.
Statistical data speaks volumes: over the past three years, more than 2.3 million Ukrainian citizens have passed through Bulgaria. Among them, over 204,000 people have chosen Bulgaria as a place for temporary or permanent refuge, with the majority being women and children - the most vulnerable groups among refugees.
By February 2025, 75,250 Ukrainian citizens possess official temporary protection status. It is noteworthy that while their number was around 67,000 in 2022, over 2,579 people have already received Bulgarian citizenship in 2024. These figures eloquently demonstrate not only an increasing migration flow but also successful integration processes.
UN experts especially emphasize several key factors for successful integration: transparent humanitarian mechanisms, institutional openness, and targeted support for the most vulnerable groups - mothers, children, elderly people, and people with disabilities.
The employment of refugees is another significant aspect. A significant number of them are already officially employed, their children attend Bulgarian schools, and some families have even developed their own businesses. Among the newcomers, there are qualified specialists, entrepreneurs, and scientists, which represents serious potential for demographic and economic renewal of the country.
Despite challenges in infrastructure, education, and healthcare, Bulgarian society demonstrates exceptional solidarity. Local communities become true heroes, accepting others' pain as their own.
The UN report unambiguously presents Bulgaria as a model of humanity and European maturity. In the context of growing global instability, our country shows that true strength lies not only in institutions but also in the ability of ordinary people to show empathy and support.