BRIEFING: Update on access to protection for stateless refugees from Ukraine - 1. Reminder: who is affected by statelessness in Ukraine?

The latest information from our members and partners suggests that urgent action is needed to ensure that stateless refugees and those at risk of statelessness from Ukraine have equal access to protection in the EU (under the Temporary Protection Directive) and in other European countries. [...] Populations affected by statelessness in Ukraine include: • Romani people who lack civil documentation to acquire/confirm their Ukrainian nationality • Former citizens of the USSR who were unable to acquire Ukrainian nationality in 1991 and have remained stateless due to lack of access to legal aid and other factors • People from non-Government-controlled areas and Crimea and those internally disp. [...] Update: barriers to protection in Europe (including under the TPD) Latest information from ENS members and partners in Ukraine and neighbouring countries suggests that stateless people and those at risk of statelessness fleeing Ukraine are facing barriers to protection due to their lack of nationality, documentation, and/or residence status. [...] ENS members in Ukraine report significant barriers for stateless people and those without documents to register for support as Internally Displaced Persons, difficulties crossing internal checkpoints, and fear amongst those without documentary proof of their links to Ukraine that they will not be able to return to the country even if they are able to leave. [...] Recommendations: how to ensure access to protection for stateless refugees from Ukraine The European Commission should: • Require EU Member States to implement the Temporary Protection Directive in an inclusive way in line with international and EU law principles of non-discrimination and upholding the rights of stateless persons • Amend the Operational guidelines for the implementation of the Tem.