Czechia demonstrates strong support for Ukraine on war anniversary
Czech President Petr Pavel reaffirmed unwavering support for Ukraine on the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion. Speaking at a gathering in Prague’s Old Town Square, he emphasized that international law must not be compromised and that aggression should not be rewarded. He urged that Ukraine and Europe must have a seat at any peace negotiations.
Standing firm against Russian aggression
Addressing thousands of attendees in the center of Prague, President Pavel reminded the crowd that Ukraine sought sovereignty after the Cold War, but Russia violated agreements, annexed Crimea, and later launched a full-scale invasion. “It is clear who the aggressor is,” he stated. He also warned against recent shifts in Western perspectives, where pragmatism appears to override fundamental values. Pavel stressed that while cooperation with the United States remains crucial, it should not come at the cost of appeasing dictators. He called for a more assertive European stance in peace talks.
Public support and commemoration in Prague
The event in Prague, organized by NGOs including Memory of Nations, People in Need, and Million Moments for Democracy, attracted a large crowd waving Ukrainian and EU flags. Many held banners condemning Russian President Vladimir Putin and calling for increased defense spending. The gathering concluded with a candlelit march to the monument of Ukrainian poet Taras Shevchenko at Kinský Square. Amnesty International and Memorial Ukraine also presented an exhibition highlighting the tragic impact of war on Ukrainian children.
Economic impact of Ukrainian refugees in Czechia
Since the war’s outbreak, Czechia has spent CZK 62.5 billion on humanitarian aid and assistance for Ukrainian refugees. However, refugees have contributed CZK 55.5 billion in taxes and social contributions, with their economic impact steadily increasing. By the third quarter of 2023, refugee tax contributions surpassed government expenditures, with an annual surplus of CZK 8 billion recorded last year.
According to Labor Minister Marian Jurečka (Christian Democrats), most Ukrainian refugees are self-sufficient and actively integrate into Czech society. While state aid initially covered housing, education, and healthcare, these costs have been declining as employment among refugees rises.
Increasing employment among refugees
Employment rates among Ukrainian refugees have steadily grown. In early 2023, around 99,000 refugees were employed. By January 2024, the number had surged to over 150,000, peaking at 154,500 in November 2023. Most work in lower-skilled jobs, filling vacancies that had been difficult to staff. However, experts highlight barriers to utilizing highly skilled refugees, such as language proficiency and complex credential recognition processes.
Declining reliance on humanitarian aid
The number of refugees receiving humanitarian aid has decreased significantly. In December 2023, 92,500 refugees received support, compared to 164,400 in early 2022. State expenditure on emergency accommodation and humanitarian aid reached CZK 7.93 billion last year, slightly higher than the previous year due to an expanded housing allowance.
Czechia continues to play a vital role in supporting Ukraine both militarily and humanitarianly. With ongoing economic integration of refugees and growing public solidarity, the country remains a steadfast ally of Ukraine in its fight for sovereignty.
