"My suitcases are still not fully unpacked”: Ukrainian refugee mothers under Norwegian temporary collective protection

Anjum, Gulnaz; Isaac, Laure; Grzymała-Moszczyńska, Halina; Mazurowska, Karolina

doi:10.1080/17482631.2025.2580074

"My suitcases are still not fully unpacked”: Ukrainian refugee mothers under Norwegian temporary collective protection

StatusVoR

Dublin Core metadata

Authors

Anjum, Gulnaz

Isaac, Laure

Grzymała-Moszczyńska, Halina

Mazurowska, Karolina

Date

2025-11-14

Journal title

Intenational Journal of Qualitative Studies in Health and Well-being

Issue

1

Volume

20

Pages

1-16

DOI

10.1080/17482631.2025.2580074

ISSN

1748-2623

Weblink

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/17482631.2025.2580074

Access date

2025-11-14

Abstract EN

Purpose: This study explores the lived experiences of Ukrainian refugee mothers who have resettled in Norway under the temporary collective protection scheme. In particular, the research investigates how structural integration mechanisms, psychosocial well-being, and individual aspirations intersect in shaping adaptation processes. Methods: A qualitative design was adopted, using semi-structured interviews with ten Ukrainian refugee mothers residing across different Norwegian municipalities. Analysis was conducted within a critical-realist and contextualist stance using reflexive thematic analysis, with attention to both systemic constraints and agentic responses. Results: Three overarching themes were identified. First, Introduction Programme (IP) Misalignment captures participants’ frustrations with the one-size-fits-all integration model, with particular emphasis on language barriers and the non-recognition of premigration professional qualifications. Second, the State of Limbo reflects the psychological distress associated with temporary protection status, ongoing uncertainty, and dependency on welfare mechanisms. Third, Commitment to Staying highlights a future-oriented stance marked by resilience, maternal responsibility, and appreciation for Norwegian safety and values. Discussion: The findings demonstrate that while Ukrainian refugee mothers in Norway face significant institutional and psychological challenges, they also exhibit high levels of motivation and adaptive resilience. Structural barriers compound feelings of liminality and hinder full participation in Norwegian society.