By Natalia Krasnenkova As a migrant in Killarney in 2023, I reflect on the significance of the International Day of Migrants initiated by the UN General Assembly in 2000. Little did I expect this day to personally touch my life, but due to the ongoing war in Ukraine, I increasingly find myself feeling like a forced migrant.

Natalia Krasnenkova was one of the first Ukrainian war refugees to arrive in Killarney

Amid the festive spirit of Christmas, reminiscent of the biblical story where Joseph and Mary fled to Egypt with baby Jesus, I can't help but draw parallels to the 8,000 Ukrainians in Kerry today who resonate with the pages of the Bible as forced migrants.

Like the family of Joseph and Mary with the baby Jesus in their arms 2,000 years ago, Ukrainian families have become a forced-migrant nowadays.
What is it like being a migrant? It means a complete loss of control over life's basics. Living in a hotel without cooking facilities, we can't control even the simplest things like food. Zero absence protocol means we're not allowed to leave the hotel, marking our presence there every day. Starting anew as a migrant involves learning a new language, searching for jobs, mastering new professions, and adapting to unfamiliar rules. Often, it feels like being a failure, struggling to comprehend half of what is said around you.

Living as a forced migrant means navigating two parallel realities. While physically in Killarney, attempting to forge a new life, thoughts and emotions frequently return to Ukraine, where the war persists and loved ones endure. Constantly checking the news and calling home is a ritual, reassuring ourselves that our dear ones are still alive.

However, our migrant experience in Killarney is also adorned with bright moments. Grateful for the support of local families in Fossa and Killarney from the early days, we, the first Ukrainians at the Innishfallen Hotel, received immediate assistance, clothes, toys, bicycles. The kindness of Sean Sweeney from the local scout organisation, Nicola Lynch uniting mums from Fossa School to raise funds for vouchers, and Maria Carol O'Sullivan's thoughtful gestures made our days brighter.

The O'Raw family sheltered a Ukrainian family, and the Killarney Immigrant Support Center (KASI), NEWKD, SKDP, and Kerry County Council have been a significant support. While I may not name everyone, the warmth and hospitality received are deeply appreciated.

Eager to contribute to the close-knit community, we participate in local events like the St. Patrick's Day parade, Christmas celebrations, and organise concerts, film screenings, and volunteer projects. Symbolically, we brought and planted 20 viburnum bushes along the Killarney municipal area, expressing our gratitude to this community that has embraced us.

Being a migrant is challenging, but the local Killarney community makes our stay a bit easier. I extend my heartfelt thanks to every local resident, family, and organisation that supports us.
In the spirit of the season, I wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Personally, I dream of meeting the next day's migrants at home, in Kyiv, in a peaceful Ukraine.

Natalia Krasnenkova