Ukrainian Refugees Dissatisfied with New Zealand Authorities

Ukrainians have demanded more financial aid and benefits from New Zealand. Activists from a Ukrainian organization have called on the country's authorities to expand financial and medical support for refugees from Ukraine, according to RNZ radio.

According to Mahi for Ukraine, the assistance from New Zealand's authorities is not sufficient, prompting some refugees to return to their home country. Activists have urged the government to increase financial and medical support for Ukrainians and to help organize English language courses for them.

Kate Turskaya, co-founder of Mahi for Ukraine and of Ukrainian descent, told RNZ that she was aware of at least three cases of refugees who returned home after trying to settle in New Zealand. “It’s incredibly disappointing,” she said.

Turskaya noted that the special two-year visas offered to Ukrainians, introduced in March, are more geared towards employment than humanitarian needs, and the process is not accompanied by the “comprehensive support” that is available in countries like Australia. “We just feel that it’s not enough,” the activist said.