Rising Anti-Ukrainian Sentiment Alarms Refugees in Poland

With Poland facing a shift in public sentiment towards its Ukrainian refugee population, many individuals have shared their experiences of hostility, bullying in schools, and online abuse. As political discourse changes leading up to the presidential elections, experts express concern about the impact of anti-Ukrainian propaganda.

Svitlana thought her daughter had found a safe haven in Poland. After fleeing the war in Ukraine, the 31-year-old mother was thankful for the warmth she felt from Polish society, especially when her daughter fell in love with her school, thriving despite the challenges outside their home. However, recent experiences have turned her relief into distress.

Now, Svitlana finds herself alarmed as her daughter faces bullying, with classmates telling her to "go back to Ukraine." The atmosphere at her daughter's school has soured, mirroring the growing anti-Ukrainian sentiment that seems to have surged in recent months. From public transport to everyday interactions, many Ukrainians report feelings of increasing hostility and xenophobia.

Despite the initial compassion Poles showed towards incoming refugees when the invasion began in 2022, the political landscape has shifted. As the country gears up for a critical presidential election with a polarized campaign, fatigue surrounding support for refugees is becoming apparent. A recent CBOS poll suggests that only 50% of Poles are in favor of accepting Ukrainian refugees, marking a steep decline from two years ago when support peaked at 81%.

Natalia Panchenko, activist and head of the 'Stand with Ukraine' Foundation, acknowledged the distressing transformation in sentiment. She perceives a disturbing rise in both online and real-world abuse directed at Ukrainians. "Now we see more of these situations… xenophobic incidents addressed to people merely speaking Ukrainian," she reflects.

Political dynamics are undeniably intertwined with the shifting public attitude. Candidates from far-right movements are amplifying anti-Ukrainian rhetoric, attributing false narratives with regard to the Ukrainian presence in Poland. These political stances are resonating with some Poles, in no small part due to disinformation spread via social media, which falsely labels Ukrainians as contributors to economic woes and societal tension.

In the face of these rising tensions, many Ukrainians express their fear and disillusionment. With the war still claiming lives back home and difficult experiences in Poland, some contemplate returning to their war-torn country, indicating a profound humanitarian crisis. As election day approaches, observers caution that the outcomes may tilt towards candidates promoting divisive policies, thereby exacerbating the plight of Ukrainian refugees in Poland.