Social Cohesion Survey in the Context of the Ukrainian Humanitarian Crisis – round 3
Beneficiary: UNICEF
Period of implementation: November 2023
Online: UNICEF's website
Goal
The study analyzes social cohesion and integration of Ukrainian refugees in communities in Romania, exploring the relationships and perceptions between them and the host population. Based on three rounds of surveys, the report provides data on social distance, perceived rights, support provided, and sources of information, with the aim of informing interventions for sustainable integration.
Key figures
Ukrainian Samples
510 Ukrainian respondents and 482 Ukrainian respondents – projective method
Romanian Sample
1,103 Romanian citizens
Resources
Human resources
ARPS research team, data analysis experts- Tools: validated and adapted questionnaire, online collection platform
Distribution channels
National online billboard, digital promotion
Data sources
Data collected in March 2023, longitudinal comparisons
Objectives
Analyzing the social implications of the crisis in Ukraine in the Romanian context
Assessing the level of integration of Ukrainian refugees into Romanian society
Investigating mutual perceptions between Romanian citizens and Ukrainian refugees
Monitoring the evolution of perceptions in three rounds of surveys (March, June, November 2023)
Generating data to support the planning of humanitarian and social interventions
Supporting harmonious coexistence and social cohesion between host communities and displaced persons
Providing informed recommendations for public policies and long-term programs
Main activities
Data collection through two types of questionnaires, tailored to each group: Romanian citizens and Ukrainian refugees
For Ukrainian refugees, the following were analyzed: living conditions, work, education, and community involvement, experiences of discrimination, and future plans
For Romanians, the questionnaire focused on: interaction with refugees, perceptions of integration, rights, and social distance
Adaptation of the method in the third stage (November) by introducing a projective method for Ukrainian respondents, with the aim of encouraging honest expression and reducing the influence of socially desirable responses
Results
From the perspective of Romanians
Interest in Ukrainian refugees persists, but concerns about economic instability and social tensions are growing
Interactions with refugees are frequent, but perceptions are becoming increasingly negative
There is a growing social distance and a low level of integration into Romanian social circles
Trust in official sources is declining, while dependence on social media for information is increasing
From the perspective of Ukrainian refugees
A more stable and integrated presence in Romania is emerging
Most finance their own housing and demonstrate a clear desire to integrate
There is growing interest in equal rights with Romanian citizens
Main challenges: housing, food, family reunification, education, language, and access to work
General conclusions
Social cohesion is under pressure due to changing perceptions and misinformation
Targeted and multisectoral interventions are needed to reduce tensions, combat misinformation, and support integration
Expanding access to education, language courses, jobs, and social services is recommended, alongside information campaigns and community engagement