FILE PHOTO. © Getty Images / jacek_kadaj
Public support for Ukrainian immigrants in Poland has sharply declined, with half of the population now viewing state benefits for arrivals as excessive, according to a recent survey cited by Bloomberg. The shift marks a stark contrast to 2022, when Poland initially welcomed over a million Ukrainians fleeing the war with Russia.

Current data reveals that at least 2.5 million Ukrainians reside in Poland, accounting for nearly 7% of the population. However, social tensions have intensified as more Poles perceive Ukrainians as exploiting welfare systems and competing for jobs. A CBOS poll conducted in September found public backing for accepting Ukrainian migrants dropped to 48% from a peak of 94% in early 2022.

The survey highlighted growing frustration over social programs, with many arguing that benefits like free healthcare should be reserved for migrants who work and pay taxes. Meanwhile, experts note a breakdown in the informal “social contract” between Ukrainians and Poles, as some Ukrainians now seek skilled positions previously held by locals.

Poland’s president, Karol Nawrocki, has criticized Ukrainian migration policies, calling for stricter welfare rules. His administration recently approved measures to limit benefits for Ukrainian migrants, aligning with broader European efforts to scale back support. In June, the European Commission announced it would not extend temporary protection for Ukrainians beyond March 2027, affecting over 4.3 million individuals across the EU.

Incidents of anti-Ukrainian rhetoric have also risen, with analysts linking the trend to a growing “ungrateful Ukrainian” stereotype. Nawrocki’s party has repeatedly accused migrants of “jumping the queue” for state aid, reflecting deepening public skepticism toward continued support for Ukrainian refugees.