Table of Contents

As of 2026, approximately 32,000 Ukrainian citizens with temporary protection status reside in Latvia, according to Eurostat data.¹ Returning home remains impossible for many because the country is still at war, many homes destroyed and lives uprooted. Ukraine has been resisting Russia in a high-intensity war for the fifth year and has been defending its territory against Russian aggression for twelve years since the initial invasion, while at the same time preventing the war from spreading to European countries. At present, the risks of Russian aggression, whether in hybrid or other forms, against the Baltic states remain high.

Taking the broader geopolitical and security context into account has been a consistent element of Latvia’s state policy in providing support to Ukraine — diplomatic, humanitarian, military, financial, and material. The significant resources allocated by Latvia to Ukraine are viewed as a direct contribution to its own security. By contrast, state policy towards Ukrainians who have fled the war and found themselves in Latvia is primarily grounded in humanitarian considerations.

At the same time, part of Latvian society does not support this policy, arguing that it places an excessive financial and social burden on the country and that resources should primarily be directed towards the needs of Latvia’s own citizens. A segment of society is critical of, or has reservations about, the rationale for providing assistance to Ukraine and Ukrainians, as well as about the prospects of war migrants remaining in Latvia for an extended period.

Another sensitive issue is the perception of the growing number of migrants, including Ukrainians. It is important to recognize that the current migration situation is a direct consequence of Russia’s war against Ukraine, as well as of the use of migration crises as a means of weakening European countries.

These issues are complex and require consideration within a broader context, including the interrelationship between regional security and migration dynamics.

Latvia faces a challenging demographic situation and an unfavourable demographic outlook. According to Eurostat,² the country is among the EU Member States experiencing the most pronounced population decline, driven by population ageing, low birth rates, and emigration. These trends are already exacerbating labour shortages and creating additional challenges for ensuring pensions and other social benefits.

Against this background, the presence of Ukrainians in Latvia may also have certain positive effects. In particular, some Ukrainians, including those of working age, may remain in Latvia for an extended period and gradually become part of Latvian society. In this context, state statistical and analytical assessments, as well as sociological data, are particularly important. They could provide a more objective evaluation of the economic and social effects of Ukrainians’ presence in Latvia and help determine the extent to which their presence offsets the pressures placed on the country’s financial, social, healthcare and educational systems.

Ukrainian citizens who have chosen Latvia as a country of temporary residence have received substantial support from the state, businesses, civil society, and ordinary Latvian citizens, representing an important expression of solidarity. At the same time, it is important to consider Ukrainians’ own contribution to the development of the Latvian economy. They work, pay taxes, rent housing, use goods and services, and spend both their earnings and savings in Latvia. Thus, part of the resources allocated to support Ukrainians returns to the Latvian economy through their employment and consumer activity.

For instance, the economic contribution of Ukrainians to host countries is illustrated by research conducted in Poland by Deloitte for UNHCR. Ukrainian refugees contributed an estimated 0.7–1.1% of Poland’s GDP in 2023 and 2.7% in 2024, reflecting their participation in the labour market, consumption, and tax contributions.³ Although the findings relate to Poland and cannot be directly extrapolated to Latvia, they illustrate the potential economic benefits of refugees’ integration into the host country’s economy.

In Latvia, approximately 10,600 Ukrainians were legally employed or self-employed by early December 2024. According to the State Revenue Service (VID), during the first ten months of 2024, taxes attributable to the wages of employed Ukrainian refugees amounted to EUR 53.5 million. By 12 December 2024, EUR 55.86 million had actually been allocated from the state budget to support programmes for Ukrainian civilians.⁴⁵ These figures illustrate the significant economic contribution of Ukrainians and the importance of considering both their fiscal contribution and the public expenditure associated with temporary protection.

Ukrainians who remain in Latvia temporarily or for a longer period may partly alleviate labour shortages and contribute to maintaining economic activity. Their presence is particularly noticeable in such sectors as services, healthcare, construction, manufacturing, trade, and other areas where there is a demand for additional workers.

At the same time, the role of Ukrainians in Latvian society should be assessed not only through economic indicators, but also through the process of their adaptation and integration into different areas of life in the country, as well as through their attitudes and perceptions of their own future in Latvia.

This can, in particular, be observed in the University of Latvia study Reception of Migrants under Conditions of Uncertainty: Governance and Engagement at the Local Level. Specific Features of Migrant Adaptation and Integration (project leader — Professor Inta Mierina). The study focuses, among other groups, on Ukrainian citizens who received temporary protection status in Latvia following Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.

It is based on in-depth interviews conducted in 2025–2026 by the author, including interviews with Ukrainians, representatives of civil society organizations, and local coordinators who are actively involved in providing assistance to Ukrainian citizens.

As this is a qualitative sociological study, its findings are not statistical indicators but rather reveal distinct tendencies related to Ukrainians’ everyday lives in Latvia, their employment, learning of the Latvian language, interaction with the local population, and perceptions of Latvia as a country of residence. Ukrainians from different Latvian cities — Riga, Valmiera, Daugavpils, and Liepāja — were invited to participate in the in-depth interviews, representing diverse life, social, and professional backgrounds. Despite these differences, common patterns can be observed in their responses, providing a better understanding of the gradual transition from initial adaptation to longer-term integration.

They work, study, learn Latvian, use local services, interact with Latvian society, and gradually develop their attitudes towards the possibility of remaining in the country for a longer period. Thus, the relevant question is not only how Latvia has received Ukrainians, but also the extent to which Ukrainians have integrated into different areas of life in the country and how their attitudes and expectations are changing.

Gratitude to the country and readiness for integration

The study results demonstrate a high level of gratitude among Ukrainians towards Latvia and its citizens for the assistance and shelter they have provided, as well as for the support received from public authorities, municipalities, civil society organizations, and individual citizens. Many respondents expressed this sentiment in simple terms: «Latvia and Latvians have done a great deal for us» and «we will always be grateful.»

The Ukrainians interviewed consistently gave highly positive assessments of the support provided by the Latvian state and municipalities, although their experiences of living and integrating in Latvia may differ significantly depending on the particular community. This has been made possible to a considerable extent by the support of local communities, the effective work of municipalities and the civil society sector, as well as local coordinators who facilitate communication, help resolve urgent issues, and foster cohesion among Ukrainians at the local level.

Despite their generally positive attitude towards Latvia and their willingness to integrate, the Ukrainians interviewed also identified a number of problems they encounter in everyday life. These include low wages, limited opportunities to find employment in their professional fields, individual cases of direct or hidden discrimination, difficulties in protecting and asserting labour rights, as well as issues related to taxation, the conditions for running a business and self-employment, and the high cost of housing rental.

The vast majority of Ukrainians have experienced a decline in their social and financial status since the outbreak of the full-scale war. Under conditions of forced migration, many are willing to take almost any available job in order to support their families.

The Latvian language as a key to integration and, at the same time, an obstacle

The vast majority of those interviewed had participated in integration activities and language courses, although with varying degrees of intensity. In the process of learning the Latvian language, history, and traditions, many noted similarities between Latvian and Ukrainian cultures. It also became clear that, when choosing Latvia under the difficult circumstances following the beginning of the full-scale invasion, many Ukrainians travelled to join relatives or acquaintances already living in the country.

Learning the Latvian language and becoming acquainted with the country’s history, culture, and traditions indicate that Ukrainians generally have an organic understanding of Latvia’s historical and cultural characteristics and demonstrate respect for its values, public holidays, and national traditions. This is facilitated by the shared historical experiences of Latvia and Ukraine, as well as by Ukrainians’ generally open attitude towards other cultures.

With regard to learning Latvian, most respondents view the need to acquire the language positively and demonstrate a willingness to learn. At the same time, they identify several objective obstacles, including a severe lack of time due to work commitments and family caregiving responsibilities, insufficiently systematic language instruction, and limited opportunities to practise Latvian in everyday life and at work.

Additional barriers include the mismatch between general language courses and the specific linguistic demands of professional environments, as well as employment in positions that do not match respondents’ educational backgrounds, qualifications, or previous work experience. These factors may limit their motivation and opportunities to improve their language skills. As a result, a self-reinforcing cycle emerges: insufficient practice hinders language acquisition, while limited proficiency restricts access to broader social and professional environments that could support further learning. The high level of Latvian proficiency required for employment in a significant proportion of available jobs represents a threshold that, to date, only a small number of Ukrainians have been able to reach.

Most Ukrainians perceive the need to learn Latvian as a natural condition of integration. However, in everyday life, combining language learning with work, supporting a family, and caring for children and relatives proves difficult and can sometimes become a demotivating factor.

A vicious circle emerges: insufficient knowledge of the state language limits access to the labour market, educational opportunities, and professional retraining and, ultimately, also affects the broader range of social contacts with Latvian society.

Russian remains a language of everyday communication for many people. Notably, Ukrainians sometimes also encounter harsh statements in Russian concerning the undesirability of their presence in Latvia, as well as the full range of narratives about Ukrainians and Ukraine in the context of the war.

Respondents express caution regarding the prospects of remaining in Latvia. Even adequate knowledge of the language, employment, and children’s education do not guarantee that they will be able to remain in the country in the long term and become a full part of Latvian society. Uncertainty regarding the future legal status of Ukrainians and the conditions of their continued residence directly affects their motivation and pace of learning Latvian. An additional challenge is the social isolation experienced by some Ukrainians and the insufficient number of sustained contacts with the local population.

The psychological aspect of integration

Particular attention should be paid to the psychological and emotional state of Ukrainians, which directly affects their experience of adaptation and integration, as well as their interaction with Latvian society more broadly.

The consequences of forced displacement, prolonged stress, uncertainty, and the loss of a familiar living environment are evident in everyday life. For many, this is an experience that can be described, in a broad sense, as a «refugee syndrome» — a state of constant adaptation to new circumstances accompanied by anxiety about the future, emotional exhaustion, and a sense of instability.

A significant part of the psychological burden is directly related to the war. This includes the traumatic experiences of the first months following the full-scale invasion, living in occupied territories or being forced to flee them, the loss of property and loved ones, and the loss of peaceful everyday life itself. Another persistent factor is constant concern for relatives and friends who have remained in Ukraine, particularly those serving in the military.

Forced relocation meant not only physical displacement but also a significant change in social and personal status. People lose or temporarily leave behind their professions, familiar social circles, social connections, financial stability, and sense of control over their own lives. This is compounded by the need to rebuild professional and social networks, as well as the language barrier and, in some cases, a sense of social isolation and alienation.

One of the most psychologically challenging factors is the sense of temporariness. In interviews, Ukrainians describe how they have managed to establish everyday routines, find employment, learn Latvian, and build new social connections, while at the same time lacking a clear understanding of where and how they will live in the future. Uncertainty about when the war will end, the possibility of returning to Ukraine, their future legal status, and the conditions of their continued residence in Latvia creates a chronic emotional burden.

Self-reliance and adaptability: relying on oneself and close relations

At the same time, many Ukrainians demonstrate a high capacity for self-reliance and adaptation. As they describe in the interviews, they tend primarily to rely on their own abilities, strength, resources, and capabilities, as well as their families, friends, and close social circles. From the state, they primarily expect opportunities for employment and a clear legal status that would allow them to build their lives independently in Latvia.

Most respondents emphasize that they do not depend on state social assistance or compensation. Exceptions include people of retirement age and those belonging to socially vulnerable groups. For the majority, what matters most is having the opportunity to work, support themselves and their families, and remain independent.

Their responses to the question of what additional assistance they expect from Latvia are particularly telling. The overwhelming majority of respondents emphasize that Latvia has already provided substantial support to Ukrainians, especially during the first year of their forced migration. At present, however, they identify as most important not additional forms of social or financial assistance, but clear and realistic rules, opportunities to work, study, integrate, and plan their future, at least in the short term.

Return or integration: the dilemma of Ukrainians’ future

For many, the most difficult questions concern the future and the possibility of returning to Ukraine, taking into account the circumstances in which they came to Latvia. This is primarily related to uncertainty and risks to their lives. For some people, returning is currently not simply difficult but physically impossible: their homes and localities have been destroyed or damaged, some territories remain occupied, and many Ukrainian cities and towns continue to experience massive missile and drone attacks.

Therefore, the question of whether to «return or stay» does not have a straightforward answer for many Ukrainians. It is not merely a personal choice, but a decision shaped by the security situation, the condition of housing and infrastructure, the possibility of resuming employment, reuniting with family, and, more broadly, prospects for the end of the war.

In interviews, some Ukrainians, including those with family ties in Latvia, speak confidently about their intention to remain in Latvia. Even among those who have nowhere to physically return to because their hometowns have been destroyed or are under occupation, there is often a strong desire to return, accompanied by uncertainty about whether they will ultimately remain in Latvia.

The civil society sector as a space for integration

Latvia’s civil society sector, represented by active citizens, established organizations, and grassroots initiatives, continues to play an important role in supporting Ukrainians — both those residing in Latvia and those who remain in Ukraine. At the same time, its role is gradually extending beyond humanitarian assistance: civil society organizations have increasingly become spaces for social interaction and the integration of Ukrainians into Latvian society.

Over time, the nature of this assistance has also changed. In 2022–2023, activities were primarily focused on basic humanitarian and social support — housing, food, clothing, and essential supplies — whereas later the needs became more long-term. In interviews conducted in 2025–2026, respondents much more frequently mentioned cultural, educational, and integration initiatives, learning Latvian, and participation in the life of local communities.

It is noteworthy that respondents regularly mentioned Latvian organizations that had assisted them at different stages of their stay in Latvia. These included Ziedot.lv, Tavi draugi, Gribu palīdzēt bēgļiem, the Salvation Army, the Latvian Red Cross, Caritas, and others.

An important role is also played by charitable organizations associated with the Lutheran Church and other Protestant denominations, as well as the Catholic Church, which have consistently contributed to supporting Ukrainians. The Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church also makes a significant contribution to the life and support of the Ukrainian community. Its role is particularly important given the absence of a separate Orthodox center for Ukrainians in Latvia.

For Ukrainians in Latvia, preserving their native language, culture, identity, and connection with Ukraine remains an important part of everyday life. In the context of the war, this has acquired particular significance, as it is connected not only with personal choice but also with preserving national identity and Ukraine’s resilience in confronting Russian aggression.

Ukrainian communities and civil society associations provide an important environment for this. In Riga, for example, the Ukrainian House operates, as well as the Volia and Perlyna educational centers, which focus on the needs of families, children, and adults. They provide spaces for communication in Ukrainian, educational, cultural, and other activities, and the preservation of traditions, while at the same time promoting integration into Latvian society through Latvian language courses, educational programmes, establishing contacts with local communities, and encouraging participation in public life in Latvia.

Interviews with Ukrainians show that civil society organizations and local initiatives have become an important environment of support and adaptation for many. Particularly significant is cooperation between Ukrainian and Latvian organizations, through which cultural, educational, and integration activities are implemented jointly, while assistance is also continuously collected for shipment to Ukraine to support both civilians and military personnel. Such cooperation not only provides support to Ukrainians but also creates opportunities for their more active interaction with Latvian society.

Foto by ReCoM research participants.

Through the activities of the civil society sector, a bridge has emerged between the Ukrainian and Latvian communities. On the one hand, it contributes to preserving the Ukrainian language, culture, and identity; on the other, it creates opportunities for Ukrainians to participate in the social life of Latvia. For many, it is also an important way of overcoming social isolation, as civic initiatives create an environment for communication, developing new contacts, and fostering a sense of belonging to a community.

Conclusions

Ukrainians in Latvia are simultaneously having to establish their everyday lives while remaining prepared for different scenarios for the future. At the same time, their integration is taking place against a complex security and psychological backdrop. Their willingness to learn the language, work, build social connections, and participate in the life of Latvian society coexists with the losses they have experienced, anxiety for their loved ones, and uncertainty about the future. Therefore, integration should be understood not only as acquiring the language or entering the labour market, but also as a gradual restoration of a sense of security, stability, and belonging to society.

Future policy towards Ukrainians should take into account the capacities of the Latvian state and society, as well as the actual experiences of Ukrainians themselves, who have already moved beyond the stage of initial adaptation and emergency assistance towards longer-term residence, integration, and more active participation in Latvian society. It is important to maintain forms of support that are sustainable for Latvia while simultaneously developing instruments that promote self-reliance, the fullest possible socio-economic inclusion, and the participation of Ukrainians in various areas of public life.

It is also important to maintain flexibility in this policy, as the future of Ukrainians remains uncertain: some may plan to return to Ukraine, while others may consider continuing their lives in Latvia.

Under current conditions, Latvia and Ukraine, as well as their societies and citizens, remain partners, particularly in the face of shared security challenges. Growing threats to Latvia, the other Baltic states, and Eastern Europe underscore the importance of solidarity, mutual support, and collective action. In this context, support for Ukrainians is not only a matter of humanitarian policy but also part of the broader European security and civilizational context.

Hanna Palii — Ukrainian researcher, political scientist, PhD, and expert, visiting researcher at the University of Latvia.