UKRAINE 2019 UNHCR PARTICIPATRY ASSESSMENT would prioritise language studies, if effectively organized, as they understand the necessity of the local language for interactions that would further their local integration. Successfully integrated refugees who were interviewed separately also singled out quick and in-depth language learning as one of the key factors for successful local integration. “One of my children is disabled; he stays in his wheelchair all the time. My wife cannot work, as our son requires full-time attention and she is taking care of him. However, twice a week she always makes it a priority to attend the language classes because this is important for us to have a normal life here.” Asylum-seeker from Afghanistan in Odesa “Many people say that Ukrainians are closed, but I would suggest to go and talk to them, and look for the positive side. There are those who can hurt, but also those who call me “brother”. If you don’t speak the language – you will not have a network. First thing to do – learn the language. Then make friends and this will open you all the doors for integration.” Recognized refugee from Guinea in Lviv. Relations with host communities UNHCR met with individuals who contributed to a series of projects in 2018 designed to promote stronger relations between refugee and host communities. They shared their positive feedback about the program and one group in Odesa expressed gratitude for the active involvement of the State Migration Service in community activities. “We are very glad that the State Migration Service is participating in community events and initiatives, attends meetings with different refugee communities. This way we can have a dialogue, build relationship and perhaps eventually find joint solutions to our problems.” Asylum-seeker from Russia in Odesa In terms of attitudes of local population to refugee communities, many participants reported discrimination related to their legal status/documents, for example, related to employment. Participants reported discrimination from the police, and one participant reported a case of being attacked in the city where he currently resides because of his ethnic origin. Somali asylum-seekers shared that they often hide their country of origin as they are concerned that it might have a negative image among the locals. At the same time, they noted that the situation has improved over the past several years. For example, while the community of Yahotyn had previously organized to block the settlement of asylum-seekers at a new Temporary Accommodation Center (TAC) located there, the asylum-seekers now residing in the TAC reported that they have good relations with local people and do not face any conflicts. Self-reliance and livelihoods Members of all the groups raised concerns regarding limited livelihoods opportunities. Asylum-seekers said they cannot have access to legal employment because the administrative requirements to obtain a work permit are unrealistic. For participants, access to employment was their major concern, as they want to be able to work in order to provide for the basic needs of their families. “I have complementary protection in Ukraine, and Ukraine is my home now. I use these roads, go to hospital here, study to become a baker. I want to give back to this country as well, and the way I see giving back is through paying taxes. I want official employment to be able to contribute to Ukrainian society.” Person with complementary protection from Guinea in Odesa “The owner of the business I’m working for says that if I take a day off, I will lose my job. There is no law that protects me. I have a small child, and it is impossible for me to support my family when they need me, as I am all the time at the market.” Asylum–seeker from Afghanistan in Odesa 7