As Russia’s war on Ukraine grinds on, waves of displacement threaten to exacerbate vulnerabilities for those fleeing the conflict. Recent reports suggest that the Trump administration is set to revoke the temporary legal status of 240,000 Ukrainians in the US. Meanwhile, his threats to withdraw military support have prompted the EU to brace for another influx of refugees. These developments place displaced Ukrainians at a heightened risk of human trafficking and labor exploitation.
A renewed exodus and increased vulnerability
The potential withdrawal of U.S. military backing for Ukraine is already raising concerns in Europe. According to Politico, EU officials are preparing for another large-scale refugee wave. This is due to the fear that an emboldened Russia could intensify its military offensive, driving more Ukrainians to seek refuge in Europe. This would add to the more than 8 million who have already fled since Russia’s invasion began in February 2022.
But crossing into the EU is not without risks. Since the war began, reports have surfaced of Ukrainian refugees being targeted by traffickers and exploitative employers. A recent case assessment study conducted by La Strada International analyzed 42 cases among displaced Ukrainians. According to the report, labor exploitation was the most prevalent form of exploitation (17 cases), followed by sexual exploitation (13 cases) and criminal exploitation (2 cases).
As written in the report,
Another notable finding is that people eligible for temporary protection status remained vulnerable to severe forms of exploitation and abuse. So, despite the prevention activities conducted and their access to rights, these people were still exposed to exploitation and other harm. Our assessment also found evidence of exposure to risks online, with 12 of the 42 cases involving online recruitment.
From the beginning of the conflict, we have seen clear evidence that Ukrainians—especially those fleeing without financial or social support—are at high risk of exploitation. Without stable legal status, these risks multiply.
The US plan to revoke temporary legal protections
While the EU scrambles to prepare for a new influx of refugees, the US may soon strip legal protections from Ukrainians already within its borders. According to Reuters, Trump’s administration is considering revoking the temporary protected status granted to Ukrainians who fled the war. This could mean fast-tracked deportations for thousands, forcing them back into an active war zone or into irregular migration pathways that make them susceptible to trafficking networks.
This decision would not only be cruel but would actively increase Ukrainians’ exposure to forced labor and exploitation. The LSI report states that “policy shifts that restrict protection increase the risk of exploitation.”
The need for safe migration policies
The developments in both the US and EU highlight the urgent need for stronger protections for Ukrainian refugees. Governments must prioritize policies that ensure legal stability for displaced persons and prevent trafficking networks from preying on those in vulnerable situations.
With instability looming and policies shifting, the international community must act swiftly to protect Ukrainian refugees from further harm. Without decisive action, thousands will be left without safe options, increasing their vulverability to exploitation and modern slavery.
Freedom United is steadfast in our commitment to advocate for safe migration as a critical strategy in the fight against modern slavery. Support our campaign calling on governments to provide safe pathways and legal protections for displaced people by singing our petition.
Freedom United is interested in hearing from our community and welcomes relevant, informed comments, advice, and insights that advance the conversation around our campaigns and advocacy. We value inclusivity and respect within our community. To be approved, your comments should be civil.