Switzerland gives refugees from Ukraine special status “S”

Initially it is valid for a year, but it allows the affected to be accommodated privately and able to work after a period of waiting.

The Federal Council has begun implementing the sanctions it has imposed. Services and goods that can be used for military purposes are subject to export ban. The principle of equal treatment applies to Ukraine.

Russia's expulsion from the international banking system Swift is also being implemented. Currently, 223 people's assets have been frozen, writes sf.ch.ch.

With the Federal Government's newest decision, Ukrainian refugees in Switzerland are granted special status “S”. Initially it is valid for a year, but it allows the affected to be accommodated privately and able to work after a period of waiting.

This was made known at the media conference at which Justice and Political Minister Karin Sutter-Keller faced journalists' questions. Among other things, the question was asked whether Ukrainian refugees are being favoured, compared with those sent forth from Afghanistan and so on. Keller-Sutter responding, said that in Afghanistan, for a change from Ukraine, it is currently not being fought. According to her, Switzerland has been equally treating refugees at different times, depending on the situation in their countries of origin

The Federal Council estimates the Swiss population's great solidarity with Ukrainian refugees. Anyone who has questions about how to help should contact the State Department for Migration (SEM).

This secretariat has established a staff dedicated to this purpose, an e-mail address has been published on the SEM website and SEM is also creating a telephone line.

Cantons are working to find additional shelter and put it into operation, sends albinfo.ch. However, the conference of social cantonal directors expects the SEM to ensure that the census, accommodation and support of Ukrainian refugees are more structured.

To ensure the power supply for next winter, gas reserves will be created along with the already provided supply of electricity from hydropower, albinfo.ch broadcasts.