Creating a Welcoming Ethos: Reception of Ukrainian Refugee Children and Families in Romania

Abstract

This study examines psychosocial mechanisms used by the Romanian community to facilitate the adaptation of Ukrainian refugees—a challenging process due to their low level of trust resulting from war trauma. Data from four focus groups, involving Romanian professionals and educators, Ukrainian professionals, and institutionalized Ukrainian children in Romania reveal three themes: ethos of reception, educational needs, and professional solutions. We identify real and perceived barriers to long-term adaptation and, based on this study, recommend prioritizing professional solutions for immediate implementation to enhance the understanding and effectiveness of support mechanisms for Ukrainian refugee children and their families.