Enhancing the social integration of people with disabilities among Ukrainian refugees in the urban environment of Georgia

Abstract

The article reveals the main factors that influence the integration of refugees from Ukraine, including persons with disabilities, into host communities in Georgia. Social integration is a growing concern in global migration studies. The study aimed to analyze what factors influence the social integration of refugees with disabilities into the host community environment in Tbilisi (Georgia). Through field observation and semi-structured interviews with volunteers and members of non-governmental organizations providing services to Ukrainian refugees, including people with disabilities, the study examined how Ukrainians’ participation in Georgian community life contributes to social integration. The results of the study highlight three dominant themes that permeate all three levels of socialization of refugees from Ukraine in a large city (micro, meso, and macro levels): the charitable model of social attitudes that portrays persons with disabilities as victims who deserve compassion; invisibility; and activity and resistance. The article also highlights the peculiarities of the integration process of Ukrainian refugees, which are typical for Georgia.