Domesticating Responsibility: Refugee Hosting and the Homes for Ukraine Scheme

Abstract

AbstractIn March 2022, in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the UK government launched its “Homes for Ukraine” private hosting scheme. The British public were urged to support Ukraine by signing up to host people fleeing the war in their own homes. There are many critiques of the scheme, especially the racialised connotations of welcoming Ukrainians while shunning others seeking sanctuary. However, the particular themes of responsibility and responsibilisation stand out. This scheme is the first programme of this scale in the UK, signalling a different approach to accommodating and supporting refugees, away from the realm of government. Is this a retreating state, and who exactly is responsible for supporting Ukrainians as they settle? What does this responsibility entail? Drawing on 58 interviews with hosts, guests, charities, and central and local government representatives, this article forges new contributions to understanding what is at stake in refugee hosting schemes.