Civilians continue to bear the heaviest burden of the war in Ukraine. While the conflict continues to affect the daily lives of millions of people across the country, those who have been forced to flee face the challenge of rebuilding their lives elsewhere. Finding stable housing, learning a new language, accessing the labour market, and ensuring educational continuity for their children are just some of the challenges refugees must overcome in order to build a new future.

JRS continues to accompany people affected by the conflict, both in Ukraine and in host countries. In Romania, Hungary, and Slovakia, JRS Europe, together with its partners, supports Ukrainian refugees by facilitating access to housing and sustainable employment opportunities. Through personalised support, they contribute to helping individuals regain autonomy, stability, and a sense of belonging within the communities that welcome them.

These activities are part of the SMART UA project, funded by the European Union under the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) Social Innovation Initiative.

Learn more through the stories of the people we support.

Ukrainian refugees begin a new life in Hungary

In Hungary, Ukrainian refugees share how language learning, housing support, individual guidance and community connections have helped them to build a sense of stability and belonging. As Natalia, from Kyiv and now living in Hungary, explains: “We received some practical tools and a specific personal approach. I know more about the Hungarian labour market, so I’m better prepared now.”

Ukrainian refugees reshape their future in Slovakia

In Slovakia, Ukrainian refugees reflect on how Slovak language courses, career guidance and business mentoring have helped them communicate more confidently, present their professional experience and access employment opportunities. “I was able to find a job that I really like. […] Studying in these courses gave me the chance to find a much better job and to learn to speak and write in Slovak,” explains Tetiana, Ukrainian refugee in Slovakia.

Ukrainian refugees rebuild their lives in Romania

In Romania, Ukrainian refugees share the journey that has helped them become more independent and feel part of their new communities. As Orlova Elena, a Romanian language teacher from Ukraine, explains: “I came from Ukraine at the beginning of the war. The Romanian language course at JRS helped me. Now I understand almost everything. I can speak without fear, with people, and I teach Romanian lessons to Ukrainian children and adults.”