Switzerland expects up to 120,000 Ukrainian refugees this year

© Keystone / Peter Klaunzer

Between 85,000 and 120,000 refugees fleeing the war in Ukraine could be living in Switzerland by the end of the year.

The State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) shared its projection via Twitter on Wednesday. However, this forecast is still uncertain as many factors are in play.

The experts of @SEMIGRATIONExternal link estimate that by the end of the year 85,000 to 120,000 protection seekers from Ukraine will be living in Switzerland (currently a bit over 60,000). This forecast is still quite uncertain, as the migration depends on many factors. #UkraineInfoCHExternal link pic.twitter.com/aBO08uUbanExternal link

— SEM (@SEMIGRATION) August 24, 2022External link

There are currently slightly more than 60,000 refugees in Switzerland, according to the SEM. The number could double in the coming months.

Swiss Justice Minister Karin Keller-Sutter said on Tuesday that there is still uncertainty around the special “S” protection status refugees from Ukraine are currently entitled to. It allows them to live in work in Switzerland for a period of one year. The Federal Council will have to decide whether to extend it for a further six months from March 2023, or to repeal it.

Keller-Sutter said the status applies to the entire Schengen area and Switzerland cannot go it alone on this issue. The EU will make its own decision.

On Wednesday, Swiss President Ignazio Cassis expressed solidarity with Ukrainians on their independence day. Ukraine celebrates its independence from the USSR in 1991 on August 24.

My warmest wishes to #UkraineExternal link on its #IndependenceDayExternal link On this occasion, we reaffirm our full solidarity with Ukrainians who demonstrate extraordinary resistance and great courage to preserve their independence. May the future bring #peaceExternal link and prosperity.

— Ignazio Cassis (@ignaziocassis) August 24, 2022External link