Refugees fleeing from the annexed Crimea and Donbass, occupied by the so-called «Russian world», can expect help from their home country, Ukraine. The new assistance program for these people, including, according to some estimates, about 10,000 Crimean Tatars, will be implemented by the Ministry of Social Policy of Ukraine, «Crimea SOS» and the international organization Stabilization Support Services.
The program will be launched in key locations in Ukraine where internally displaced persons settle, as determined by «Crimea SOS» and the Ministry of Social Policy. In order to effectively implement the program, a network of counselors will be established in these locations, who will serve as contact points for IDPs, collect their applications and address their issues.
Previously, legal assistance to IDPs to protect their rights was provided by the Center for Legal and Legislative Initiatives, where anyone can receive free consultations on relevant issues.
It is worth noting that Ukrainians are trying to show solidarity with their compatriots of Crimean Tatar nationality, although such efforts are mainly led by civil activists in the context of the state authorities’ involvement in clan-oligarchic disputes. Recently, in support of the Crimean Tatars, ordinary Kiev residents painted a 1600 square meter embankment in Obolon with the Crimean Tatar flag.
In addition, President Poroshenko has introduced amendments to the Ukrainian constitution aimed at enshrining Crimea (which Russia considers part of its territory) with the status of national autonomy for the Crimean Tatars.