Focus Groups on Employment and Housing Access for Ukrainian Refugees in Romania

On September 25 and 26, 2025, two focus groups were held in Bucharest as part of the SMART UA project, addressing key challenges faced by Ukrainian refugees in Romania—access to employment and safe housing. The sessions brought together representatives from key institutions and organizations, including the General Directorate for Social Assistance of the Municipality of Bucharest (DGASMB), CARITAS Association, National Employment Agency (ANOFM), Terre des Hommes Foundation, AIDROM, Ateliere Fără Frontiere, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).  

Participants discussed institutional responses, persistent barriers, and inclusive support models that can enhance refugee access to decent work and stable living conditions. Their expertise and on-the-ground experience offered valuable insights into how support systems can be improved to meet the evolving needs of Ukrainian refugees in Romania.  

Key topics included the most significant barriers: limited Romanian language skills, lack of affordable housing, recognition of qualifications, and insufficient access to childcare. At the institutional level, responses range from employment counselling and housing subsidies to partnerships with NGOs.  

Inclusive support models—such as job placement programs, community housing initiatives, and social enterprises—were highlighted as particularly effective in fostering long-term integration and stability.  

The SMART UA project is co-funded by the European Union through the ESF+ Social Innovation +Initiative. 

Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are, however, those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Social Fund Agency. Neither the European Union nor the Granting Authority can be held responsible for them.