Poland became one of the main countries that accepted Ukrainian refugees after the beginning of the full-scale invasion of Russia. It provided shelter to millions of Ukrainians, providing them with financial, social and humanitarian assistance. At the same time, the issue of continued support for Ukrainian refugees remains a subject of active discussion in Polish society and politics. In view of the economic burden, the country’s authorities are considering the possibility of reducing aid, which could significantly affect the living conditions of refugees.
To support the activities of the Government of Poland, UNHCR coordinates the Refugee Action Plan 2025-2026. It includes 77 humanitarian organizations, the vast majority of which are local. Together, they are appealing to the international community for $392 million (approximately PLN 1.5 billion) to continue providing assistance to refugees from Ukraine in Poland over the next two years. It was reported representation UNHCR Agency for Refugees in Poland.
These funds should be directed to the implementation of measures to support refugees. The message emphasizes the critical importance of international financial support to ensure social protection of Ukrainians who lost their homes due to the war.
“At this critical moment, defined by geopolitical complexity, it is more important than ever to support Poland and the refugees it hosts and enable them to contribute to the communities they host. Investing in the human capital of refugees is also an investment in Ukraine’s future – including the possibility of return and reconstruction – which will benefit broader plans to achieve peace and stability in the region.” – emphasized Kevin J. Allen, UNHCR representative in Poland.
Despite significant efforts, the issue of reducing the amount of aid is increasingly being raised in Poland. Possible changes to the support program are increasingly discussed, including restrictions on financial assistance, social benefits and access to health and housing services. Polish authorities are trying to find a balance between supporting refugees and the need to reduce the financial burden on the budget.
Poland, which remains a leader in supporting Ukrainian refugees, faces financial challenges. However, the country is still trying to maintain large-scale aid, attracting international resources. The decisive factor in further support will be the reaction of the international community and the level of funding that can be attracted in the next two years.
As a reminder, since January 1 of this year, the amount of payments in Poland has been increased and now varies from 950 to 1,679 zlotys per person. Currently, Ukrainian refugees with children are entitled to social assistance in the amount of 800 zlotys per child, but some Ukrainian citizens may be deprived of this privilege.
Assistance for refugees who have the status of disability can also be called tangible – from 600 to 4,000 zlotys, depending on the conclusion of the MSEK and the category. But this is only a payment – in addition to it, persons with disabilities can receive a pension in the amount of 1,588 zlotys.
Schoolchildren who came to Poland from Ukraine with their parents, fleeing hostilities, receive 300 zlotys from the Polish government once a year, with this money the child can buy stationery, a backpack and other school supplies.
