UNHCR has increased its support for over 100,000 Ukrainian refugees in Bulgaria, working closely with state and civil partners. In 2025, the agency will deploy a network of "Compass Centers" in six major cities — Sofia, Varna, Burgas and others, to facilitate refugees' access to education, employment, healthcare services and legal aid.
For this purpose, UNHCR is allocating around $14.5 million to support program efforts related to Ukrainian refugees. Improved coordination and infrastructure are expected to contribute to the successful integration of vulnerable groups, including self-settled women and children.
UNHCR summarizes that the active model of inclusive centers significantly improves the protection and prospects of refugees in the Bulgarian context, in line with European Union standards.