ANALYSIS OF THE UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ INTEGRATION IN FORCED MIGRATION CONDITIONS IN UKRAINE AND THE CZECH REPUBLIC

The study examines the specifics of the integration of Ukrainian refugee students in the Czech Republic and internally displaced university students in Ukraine after the russian invasion in February 2022. The aim is to compare the levels of integration of these two groups according to language, economic, sociocultural, legal, and psychological criteria, for which an online survey of 46 Ukrainian students in the Czech Republic (Masaryk University) and 231 internally displaced students in Ukraine (Donbas State Pedagogical University) was conducted. The results show that both groups face significant challenges despite support from countries, institutions, and higher education institutions. Language barriers remain a problem even for students with medium levels of Czech language skills. Low incomes and non-educational work hamper economic integration. Sociocultural integration is characterized by an interest in local culture but limited by deep social ties with the local population. Both groups demonstrate a good awareness of their rights, but a low level of participation in social and political initiatives. The high level of psychological distress among students, despite their general satisfaction with life, is particularly alarming. The study highlights the need for comprehensive support strategies that focus not only on the practical aspects of integration but also on mental health, social connections, and long-term economic integration. Implementing programs that promote deeper cultural exchange, provide resources to support mental health, and support career development relevant to students’ fields of study is recommended.