ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to identify good practices of “first step” assistance to Ukrainian refugees in the V4 countries. The text describes and discusses examples in four topics: providing information, welcoming and support centres, direct financial help, and organisation of volunteers and support, especially notable is the absence of good practice originating in the state administration. The text states that a lack of experience and an inhospitable political climate towards integrating refugees impacted the “first step” policy and limited involvement of governmental agencies in assistance. Hence, the primary agents were local and regional administrations and NGOs. In conclusion, the chapter argues for developing and institutionalising state and local assistance networks that could be rapidly utilised in future emergencies.
