Survey of the problems faced by foreign volunteers, medics and military legionnaires in Ukraine

The National Social Service of Ukraine, in partnership with the Centre for Democracy and Rule of Law, conducted a survey to identify the problems faced by foreign volunteers, medics and military legionnaires in Ukraine. The interim data of the survey covers the period from September to November 2024.

The survey aims to identify the problems faced by foreign volunteers (including foreign legionnaires) in Ukraine in order to further develop legal advice and recommendations for regulating their residence both during and after the war. 

Key interim results

The main difficulties faced by foreign volunteers in Ukraine, according to the survey:

• Paperwork - 72% of respondents mentioned this as the main challenge.

• Limited access to banking services - more than half of the volunteers face difficulties in opening accounts or conducting transactions.

• Language barrier is a significant obstacle in interacting with government agencies and local communities.

• Military threats - a quarter of respondents noted the risks associated with shelling and drone attacks in the frontline areas.

Key decisions that, according to respondents, would improve conditions for foreign volunteers in Ukraine:

• Simplification of migration procedures (procedure for obtaining a D-10 visa).

• Improving banking services (introducing special packages for foreign volunteers, providing all banking documents in English).

• Optimization of customs procedures.

• Assistance with language adaptation (to ensure the possibility of receiving English-language consultations in government agencies and maintain websites in English).

The survey was launched in September 2024 and will last until March 2025 using a mixed quantitative and qualitative approach. The survey is conducted anonymously through a Google form that contains both closed and open-ended questions, which enables a comprehensive analysis of the current situation. 

The document with interim results covers data obtained from September to November 2024 and includes an analysis of respondents' demographics, main threats and challenges, interaction with government agencies, and recommendations for improving the situation. The survey involved 60 respondents - foreign volunteers, medics and military personnel working in Ukraine. The full report, which will include an extended analysis and detailed recommendations, will be presented after all stages of the survey are completed.

We invite foreign volunteers and legionnaires to participate in the survey: https://forms.gle/7mZYwJfUk8xG9rCVA.

Click on the link to open and download the document.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Ae00lZ5VytmJcX7aI3mkzFm8IRaElpsn/view?usp=sharing