Röbel welcomes refugee Ukrainians: New accommodation ready from 2026!

Röbel welcomes refugee Ukrainians: New accommodation ready from 2026!

In Röbel, in the Mecklenburg Lake District, a new place of hope for refugees is being built. From the beginning of 2026, the empty restaurant “Zur Unit” on Hohe Straße will serve as accommodation for up to 48 refugees from Ukraine. The renovation of this building is particularly important because the past two years have shown how important open doors are in the region.

During a tour on Wednesday afternoon, interested citizens got a first impression of the new shared accommodation. This will have 14 rooms, divided into double and quadruple rooms. Michael Löffler, representative of the district, announced the renovation in the main committee and emphasized that the first residents should move in quicker than expected. The accommodation will begin operations on May 1, 2026, and rapid occupancy is already being planned.

Support offers for refugees

The district is now actively looking for an operator who will not only accommodate the refugees, but also support them in dealing with authorities and arriving in their new surroundings. The measures that the operator should offer include information about rights and obligations, information about the labor market and the teaching of basic German skills. Building relationships with local clubs, associations and churches is also on the agenda.

The aim of this shared accommodation is to strengthen the integration and promotion of community between the residents. Mayor Matthias Radtke emphasizes the importance of openness and hospitality and calls on citizens to warmly welcome the newcomers. This is not the first time that refugees have been integrated into Röbel: two years ago, Ukrainian refugees were already living in the city and finding a home.

The legal framework

The state plays a central role in protecting refugees. Overall, the Federal Minister for Family Affairs has been pursuing the “Protection of refugees in refugee accommodation” initiative with UNICEF since 2016. Its mission is to support people who are particularly vulnerable and to ensure their safety in the accommodation. According to Section 44 Paragraph 2a of the Asylum Act, the states are obliged to ensure protection for women and vulnerable people when it comes to accommodation. The minimum standards for the protection of these groups have been continually updated in recent years and serve as important guidelines for shelters at the municipal level.

In Röbel, the signs with the new shared accommodation point to integration and support. It remains to be hoped that the measure not only gives refugees a new start, but also enriches the local community. The citizens of Röbel are now called upon to demonstrate their hospitality and create an atmosphere of welcome. Together they can help ensure that the new accommodation becomes a place of safety and togetherness.