Anti-Ukrainian Sentiments in Poland: Why the Number of Hate Crimes Is Increasing

In Poland, where millions of Ukrainians have sought refuge, there has been a noticeable increase in crimes and acts of hatred against refugees. This has undermined the solidarity that was present at the beginning of the mass migration and complicated the integration of Ukrainians into Polish society. According to data provided by Bloomberg, anti-Ukrainian sentiments manifest in various forms.

There is an increase in physical assaults, verbal abuse, discrimination at work and in daily life, difficulties in finding housing and employment, as well as refusals of service. The number of aggressive comments and threats on social media, spreading anti-Ukrainian narratives, is also on the rise.

The rise in conflicts coincides with increasing internal and economic differences in Poland, particularly in the field of agricultural exports and the labor market.

"A big question is how Navrotsky will be able to reconcile the interests of Poland's national security with the growing anti-Ukrainian sentiments among the right-wing electorate," experts speculate.

Among Ukrainians in Poland, faith is diminishing in the government's ability to ensure their safety and protect them from acts of hatred. Attacks on representatives of Ukraine are becoming more frequent, complicating the social adaptation in another country.

The increase in crime and acts of hatred in Poland seriously complicates the integration of Ukrainians into Polish society. The deepening conflicts coincide with the country's economic and social problems, creating a difficult situation for refugees. Ukrainians in Poland are facing an increased risk of physical assaults, discrimination at work and in daily life, which undermines their faith in the protection and security system.