Austria housing shortage forces Ukrainian refugees into Catholic churches

A Ukrainian child holding the national flag during a rally in support of refugees in Europe. Photo: obozrevatel

In January 2026 it became known that, due to a lack of housing in Austria, Ukrainian refugees have begun to be temporarily accommodated in Roman Catholic churches. The reason was disagreements between the federal authorities and the regional governments, as well as the closure of state reception centers. The ORF outlet reported this.

The accommodation is being organized with the involvement of the Catholic charitable organization Caritas. Emergency shelters are being set up in churches: beds are installed, and food, clothing, and basic necessities are provided. The project is funded through donations and is intended as a temporary measure – at least until mid-February.

The first shelter opened on 19 January at the Kaasgraben church in Vienna’s 19th district. It is designed for 30 people and operates around the clock. Parish representatives report receiving requests from Ukrainians who fear being left without housing, including families with children.

On 30 January, a second shelter is planned to open at Pater-Zeininger-Platz, designed for 50 people. However, the number of requests already exceeds the available places. Caritas notes that parishes’ capacities are limited, while approximately 1,200 refugees from Ukraine continue to arrive in Austria each month.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that in Germany, there were calls for mass deportations of Syrians in 2026.

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