Ties that help carry on: family and school friendships in supporting Ukrainian refugees

Abstract

<p>This study examines the social networks of Ukrainian refugee families in Finland, Estonia, and Lithuania approximately two years after the commencement of the Russian invasion. Using egocentric social network analysis (SNA) and semi-structured interviews, it explores how family and school-based connections facilitate integration and everyday support. The findings reveal that families maintained stronger ties with other Ukrainians, both locally and transnationally, than with members of host communities. Language barriers, adjusting to different school systems, and the “double school” phenomenon shaped children’s and families’ experiences of belonging, while the erosion of previous ties added to social vulnerability. The study shows that schools play a vital role not only in education but also in rebuilding stability, adding to trust, and social participation. However, pedagogical efforts alone are insufficient; strengthening the social and relational dimensions of schooling is crucial to support refugee families’ integration in their host societies.<br></p>