IOM Minsk Participates in Joint Visit to Gomel on Situation of Ukrainians

On 17-19 April 2015  representatives of IOM Minsk together with representatives of UNDP, UNFPA and UNHCR visited the Gomel region. The main purpose of the visit organized by UNHCR was monitoring of the situation of refugees and asylum-seekers in Gomel region, in particular Ukrainians.

During the visit the delegates met with Ukrainian families residing in the settlements neighboring Gomel and participated in the meeting with Ukrainian nationals residing in Gomel. The meeting was organized by Gomel Red Cross Society and took place at their premises. During each meeting UNHCR specialist informed the Ukrainian citizens on complimentary protection and their possible assistance they may receive. Moreover, all Ukrainians were provided with the info sheet with necessary data and contacts of relevant organizations. The representatives of UN Agencies had the opportunity to find out the difficulties faced by Ukrainians with the view to further discuss them with the Belarusian Government.

The participants met with representatives of Gomel region Committee on Labour, Employment and Social Protection and Department of Citizenship and Migration, as well as with Head of Gomel Red Cross Society and potential employers. The visits to the Temporary Accommodation Centre for asylum-seekers and tflats purchased for resettled Syrian refugees were on the delegation’s agenda too.

The information obtained during the visit allowed the participants monitor the dynamics of changes in the situation of Ukrainians in Gomel region.