Ukrainian refugees in Poland are experiencing a troubling rise in anti-Ukrainian sentiment, with reports of bullying in schools and abuse on public transport becoming common. Svitlana, a Ukrainian mother, highlights the alarming shift in her daughter's school environment, where she was told to "go back to Ukraine" by classmates. Despite once being welcomed, many Ukrainians now face increased hostility, with some expressing a desire to return home due to feelings of rejection.
Activist Natalia Panchenko from the 'Stand with Ukraine' Foundation recalls an initial outpouring of support from Polish citizens towards arriving Ukrainian refugees. However, recent trends show a significant increase in online abuse and xenophobia against Ukrainians, with many Poles expressing negative sentiments towards them. According to recent polling by the respected CBOS Centre, support for accepting Ukrainian refugees has dwindled, with only 50% of Poles in favor, a drop from 81% two years ago.
The changing public opinion is also reflected in the ongoing presidential election in Poland, where candidates are navigating the complexities of this issue. While the front-runner Rafal Trzaskowski has strong pro-Ukrainian credentials, he is tempering his stance to appeal to centrist voters as anti-Ukrainian sentiments grow. Meanwhile, far-right candidates are leveraging this atmosphere to galvanize support through aggressive rhetoric against Ukrainians.
Disinformation campaigns facilitated by Russian actors are further exacerbating the situation, spreading harmful narratives about Ukrainian refugees in Poland. Organizations monitoring this disinformation warn that such propaganda is influencing public attitudes and shaping voter behavior leading up to the election.
As the refugee crisis endures, the emotional toll on many Ukrainians in Poland is palpable. Numerous families find themselves navigating a landscape once characterized by compassion and support, only to confront an uncertain future amidst hostility and fear of reprisals.
