Rising Anti-Ukrainian Sentiment: Refugees Face Challenges in Poland

As the ongoing war in Ukraine extends, refugees living in Poland are encountering a surge in anti-Ukrainian rhetoric and actions. A recent surge in xenophobic incidents coincides with a polarization in Poland’s political landscape, raising concerns among the Ukrainian community about their future in the country.

Svitlana, a 31-year-old Ukrainian mother, recalls a time when her daughter enjoyed school in Poland, feeling safe and accepted. However, a recent incident where her daughter was told to "Go back to Ukraine" marked a worrying shift in public sentiment. This change reflects a broader trend reported by many Ukrainians residing in Poland, who say they've faced increased abuse, bullying, and online xenophobia in recent months. The upcoming Polish presidential elections have intensified these tensions, with candidates setting contrasting agendas towards Ukrainian refugees.

The atmosphere altered dramatically after Svitlana's daughter faced bullying at school linked to her Ukrainian identity. Such instances of harassment have forced many Ukrainians to rethink their decision to stay in Poland. "At work, people claim Ukrainians behave poorly, and my friends wish to return home," Svitlana expressed her fear over growing anti-Ukrainian sentiment. Currently, at least 2.5 million Ukrainians are living in Poland, and initial overwhelming support from local citizens at the beginning of the war appears to be waning.

Activists such as Natalia Panchenko from the 'Stand with Ukraine' Foundation note that while many Poles remain supportive, a significant rise in anti-Ukrainian hostility, both online and in real life, has become evident. The strain for many Ukrainian refugees, grappling with trauma from their home country's war, is compounded by these negative sentiments and bullying incidents.

A recent poll indicates that public support for accepting Ukrainian refugees has dropped from 81% two years ago to 50% recently. Candidates for the upcoming elections have begun to address this change in public opinion. The far-right candidate Slawomir Mentzen promotes an anti-Ukrainian agenda, while the leading candidate Rafal Trzaskowski appears to be downplaying his pro-Ukrainian stance. This political maneuvering reflects ongoing shifts in attitudes and concerns about Ukrainian refugees becoming a contentious issue in the election.

Moreover, misinformation and propaganda against Ukrainians are reportedly being circulated within Poland, framing refugees as burdens to the economy and social fabric. Such narratives, emanating from foreign sources and amplified through social media, pose further challenges to community cohesion.

As the elections approach, what impact these sentiments will have on the Ukrainian diaspora in Poland remains a critical question, drawing attention to the intersections of war, identity, and politics in a country that has become a refuge for many fleeing conflict.