A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal

War-fleeing Ukrainians’ adaptation and attachment under temporary protection in the European Union: the case of Estonia




AuthorsJauhiainen, Jussi S.; Toivonen, Henri

PublisherInforma UK Limited

Publication year2026

Journal: Journal of Baltic Studies

First page 1

Last page27

ISSN0162-9778

eISSN1751-7877

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.1080/01629778.2026.2686290

Publication's open availability at the time of reportingNo Open Access

Publication channel's open availability Partially Open Access publication channel

Web address https://doi.org/10.1080/01629778.2026.2686290


Abstract

Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine triggered a mass exodus to the European Union, where displaced Ukrainians received protection under the Temporary Protection Directive (TPD). Estonia hosted one of the highest proportions of war-fleeing Ukrainians relative to its population. A 2024 survey of 391 displaced Ukrainians in Estonia showed considerable uncertainty about their long-term residence and migration plans. Those with Estonia-oriented adaptation and attachment (16.9%) were more often young adults and parents, employed, satisfied with life, learning Estonian, and less inclined to return compared with Ukraine-oriented individuals (13%). The largest group (70.1%) was oriented to both countries, rather than possessing transnational lifestyles.



Last updated on 18/08/2026 12:36:47 PM