Decreased Number of Ukrainians Receiving Automatic Asylum in Norway
Fewer Ukrainians from certain regions will now undergo automatic asylum approval in Norway. The Norwegian government, via UDI, deems six western Ukrainian areas as safe, hence, asylum applicants hailing from these regions will now undergo regular asylum procedures. The government asserted that these alterations to collective protection status are intended to aid those who still require protection. They reaffirm their commitment to supporting Ukraine.
Ever since the February 2022 Russian invasion, the majority of Ukrainian arrivals in Norway have been granted temporary collective protection, without individual appraisal of their claims. However, now, the necessity for protection in deemed safe areas will be evaluated on an individual basis, potentially leading to the rejection of some asylum requests.
At present, Germany does not impose such restrictions on specific Ukrainian regions. The refugee protection accord for Ukrainians holds validity until March 2025.
Despite the automatic approval for asylum being abolished for certain Ukrainian regions in Norway, individuals from these areas will still have the opportunity to provide evidence supporting their need for protection during the regular asylum process. The Norwegian government's revised policy aims to ensure fairness and provide protection where it's truly needed.
