Jasmijn Slootjes

With the Russian invasion of Ukraine reaching its one-year milestone on February 24, many of the millions of Ukrainians who fled their homes and crossed into EU territory will have spent a year of their lives as refugees in all but name. Increasingly, policymakers and service providers in and outside of government in the European Union are having to confront the likelihood of prolonged stay for at least 5 million Ukrainians as well as the prospect of new displacement.

Research and data are powerful tools in any policy area. Using this evidence to inform how policies are designed and implemented helps governments learn what works (and what does not) and under which conditions. It also helps ensure that public funds are used as effectively and efficiently as possible. In the integration field, the smart use of evidence can promote the well-being of both migrants and the broader societies in which they live.