Ukrainian refugees fleeing conflict with Russia have received more favorable treatment compared to those displaced by other conflicts, the Council of Europe stated on Thursday. The organization called for equitable support for all refugees regardless of their background.
In its annual report, the Council of Europe’s Commission against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI) acknowledged the significant efforts made to assist Ukrainians since the conflict began in February 2022. However, it highlighted disparities in the treatment of different groups within the Ukrainian refugee population and between Ukrainian refugees and those from other regions.
The ECRI report noted that while there have been “admirable efforts” to support Ukrainian refugees, the quality of accommodation and services varied based on ethnicity. For example, Roma Ukrainians often received lower quality housing compared to other Ukrainians in similar circumstances.
Additionally, the African Union reported early in the conflict that African citizens in Ukraine faced discrimination and were sometimes denied the right to cross borders to safety. ECRI found similar discrepancies in the quality of reception centers and services provided to Ukrainians compared to those offered to refugees from other regions.
“The new normal should be to welcome all people from everywhere like Ukrainians [were welcomed],” Johan Friestedt, ECRI’s executive secretary, emphasized at a news conference.
ECRI’s chairperson, Bertil Cottier, suggested that more solidarity was shown towards Ukrainians because they were perceived to be more culturally similar to Europeans. “When people are more or less like you, it’s always easier,” he said.
The Council of Europe underscored the need for all displaced individuals to receive adequate protection and support, regardless of nationality, ethnicity, or religion. Despite some anti-Ukrainian incidents, overall public sentiment towards Ukrainians has remained supportive, contrasting with more hostile attitudes towards refugees from other regions.
The report also noted an increase in hate incidents against Muslims and Jews following recent international events. After the October 7 Hamas-led attack on Israel, there was a rise in anti-Muslim incidents, driven by stereotypes linking entire communities to violence. Likewise, antisemitic actions, including hate speech and vandalism, have surged in several European countries.
ECRI clarified that while criticism of Israel is not inherently antisemitic, it becomes a problem when it incites violence against Jews. The report called for a balanced approach in addressing these issues to prevent further division and discrimination.
The Council of Europe’s findings point to a need for consistent and fair treatment of all refugees, urging countries to apply the same level of compassion and support to individuals displaced by conflicts worldwide, as demonstrated in the response to Ukrainian refugees.
