The first fully operational Unity Hub in the European Union opened this week in the Czech Republic. Opened on 2 March 2026, the Ukrainian Consultation and Community Centre in Prague (UCCC) will serve as a unique model for EU states planning for establishing such facilities in support of Ukrainians and Ukrainian state authorities.
The opening ceremony was graced by representatives of the Czech Ministry of the Interior, including Mr Tomáš Urubek, Head of Foreign and European Affairs; Ms Monika Pham, Head of International Programmes; Mr Václav Báča, MEDEVAC/Aid in Place Programme Coordinator; and Ms Běla Hejná, Head of Return Unit from the Department of Asylum and Migration Policy.
In his welcoming remarks, Mr. Tomáš Urubek expressed appreciation for the Centre’s achievements and the professionalism of the team. Through close cooperation among partners, the Centre has been able to respond effectively to the various challenges faced by Ukrainians in the Czech Republic and provide reliable and timely support. Marking an important milestone in strengthening coordinated support for Ukrainians in the Czech Republic, the UCCC and its activities are supported by the Czech Ministry of the Interior; in close cooperation with the Embassy of Ukraine in the Czech Republic and the Ukrainian Ministry of Social Policy, Family, and Unity.
The UCC, a concept established by ICMPD in 2022 in cooperation with Ukrainian authorities, expanded its activities in September 2025 to evolve into a Unity Hub-type community space. Since then, UCCC has continued to provide consultations on temporary protection and legal residence, while offering comprehensive assistance on consular procedures, including support for the preparation of documents required for services at the Ukrainian Consulate in the Czech Republic.
The Centre reinforces its functions as both a consultation centre and a platform for the engagement of Ukrainian diaspora. It organises cultural, educational, and networking events, actively engaging the Ukrainian diaspora in the Czech Republic to foster inclusion, connection, and resilience within the Ukrainian community.
“The UCCC continues as a trusted space for guidance, support and coordination, contributing to our comprehensive efforts in assisting Ukrainians in the Czech Republic. At the same time, the Centre functions as a vibrant community space, fostering dialogue, mutual support, and active engagement within the Ukrainian diaspora,” said Radim Žák, Head of Region Eastern Europe and Central Asia. Mr Žák was joined at the opening ceremony by ICMPD colleagues Magda Sabadello, Project Manager; as well as the UCCC team in Prague including Anna Kurnytska, the Centre´s Coordinator.
More information on the Ukrainian Consultation Centres (UCC) here. Listen to the latest ICMPD Migration Podcast here, where Ms Kurnytska discusses in great detail the work of the UCCC.
