On 9 March, ICMPD Director General Michael Spindelegger met with Hungarian State Secretary Péter Sztáray at the Hungarian-Ukrainian border. His visit was aimed at understanding the realities of mass displacement from Ukraine and supporting ICMPD member states impacted by the conflict.
On-site, at the village of Beregsurány, the Director General saw a well-functioning system of local government, first-responders and civil society actors: “I am impressed by the solidarity with which the arriving refugees are welcomed, especially with the help of Malteser International and volunteers. However, it is also crucial to ensure that countries of destinations across Europe are well-equipped for handling the inflow of refugees in the medium to long-term. A solid policy framework and building up of capacities will be decisive. ICMPD stands ready to provide the necessary tools and support for our Member States and beyond. We need to ensure that these people seeking refuge in Europe are provided with safe and regular pathways, that the vulnerable are protected, and that others can get access to the labour market.”
ICMPD was helping to build up the capacities of Ukraine’s border authorities before the conflict and is now closely monitoring the situation there, in bordering countries and in countries of destination. Through its Member States Programme, ICMPD is providing a platform for national actors to help them coordinate, exchange information on immediate needs, and address challenges to find tangible solutions for the months ahead.