The Impact of Social Services in Romania on the Integration of Ukrainian Refugees

The article starts with a review of the relevant literature in the field and continues with an overview of the strategies implemented for Ukrainian refugees in Romania by both state institutions and representatives of civil society organizations following the invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation on 24 February 2022. Among the factors contributing to the inclusion of Ukrainian refugees (students and adults alike), we mention the implementation of projects funded by international and national bodies, increased awareness of legal, social, medical, and judicial rights, community involvement, and better partnerships between public and private institutions. At the same time, we highlight a series of difficulties affecting their integration: the language barrier, their separation from loved ones, at times inadequate institutional structures, and insufficient interinstitutional coordination (thus failing to ensure access to temporary protection).