Romania — Crossing Back Surveys with Ukrainian Nationals (April - June 2023)

Since 24 February 2022, refugees from Ukraine and Third Country Nationals (TCNs) have been fleeing to neighbouring countries as a result of the war. As of July 2023, up to six million refugees from Ukraine were recorded across Europe. At the same time, more than 20 million border crossings of Ukrainian and Third- Country refugees and migrants were reported from Ukraine into the neighbouring countries since February 2022. 

IOM has deployed its Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) tools since mid-April 2022 to collect individual surveys in neighbouring countries with persons crossing into Ukraine, with the aim to improve the understanding of main profiles, displacement patterns, intentions and needs of those moving into Ukraine. This report is based on surveys collected in Romania between 01 April and 30 June 2023 in various locations, such as Siret, Isaccea, Iasi county or Galati county, as well as in various settings, including transit points (e.g., train and bus stations), the Info and Community Center (run by IOM and UNHCR), collective accommodations and a food and non-food items distribution event.

Key Findings:

•Top 3 countries of stay abroad: Romania (56%), Bulgaria (16%), Germany (7%). 

•Top 3 oblasts of origin: Odeska (30%), Chernivetska (21%), Kyiv city (7%). 

•Top 3 needs upon crossing back:* food supply (18%), information (15%), support to return (11%).

•Top areas of assistance received:* food (29%), sanitary supplies (21%), accommodation (16%) and financial support (15%).

•Transport to Ukraine: car (64%), foot (16%), minibus (12%).

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