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Over 1.5 million Ukrainians in Poland: interior ministry

23.12.2024 00:30
Poland is home to over 1.5 million Ukrainians, including 988,000 who have fled the Russian invasion and are under temporary protection, according to recent figures from the Ministry of the Interior and Administration.
Photo:
Photo:Polish Border Guard/twitter.com/Straz_Graniczna

Poland’s efforts to accommodate and integrate such a large number of Ukrainians are among the most extensive in Europe, reflecting the country’s strategic response to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the neighboring country, according to officials.

The data, presented in the Polish parliament last week by Kamil Kisiel, a high-ranking ministry official, covers the period up to the end of October.

Kisiel told lawmakers that the number of Ukrainians under temporary protection has seen a slow increase since the summer, rising from 979,196 in June to 988,000 in October.

'High level of self-sufficiency'

According to Kisiel, Ukrainians who arrived in Poland before February 2022 derive about 90 percent of their income from employment.

For war refugees, this figure is slightly lower, at 76 percent, but still reflects a “high level of self-sufficiency.”

However, many of these refugees are employed below their qualifications, earning less than the Polish average income.

Half of the pre-2022 migrants intend to settle permanently in Poland, compared to 20 percent of those who have arrived after the war began.

Over 250,000 Ukrainian students in Polish schools

Polish schools now cater to 252,986 Ukrainian students, of whom 186,341 are refugees. This represents an increase from 183,900 students at the end of the 2023/2024 academic year, with 34,723 new students enrolling this September.

As of September 2024, Ukrainian children living in Poland are required to participate in the Polish education system, including preschool, primary and secondary education.

To support social integration, Poland’s education ministry has secured a EUR 110 million European Union grant for a 2025 initiative. The program will fund the hiring of intercultural assistants, psychological and educational support, and training for education staff.

Proficiency in Polish, significant economic contributions

More than 70 percent of Ukrainians in Poland rent their homes, and their proficiency in Polish is improving.

Among pre-war migrants, 68 percent report good language skills, compared to 28 percent of refugees. A lack of Polish proficiency is reported by only 9 percent of refugees and 3 percent of economic migrants.

Deputy Family, Labor and Social Policy Minister Aleksandra Gajewska highlighted the significant economic contributions of Ukrainians in Poland.

Over 80 percent of their income comes from employment, with social benefits comprising just 20 percent. Their presence boosts domestic consumption, particularly in the food, housing and transport sectors.

Remittances to families in Ukraine further stimulate economic activity.

Few crimes committed by Ukrainian refugees: police

Polish authorities report that Ukrainian refugees do not pose a significant threat to public safety.

Inspector Monika Golik of the National Police Headquarters (KGP) said that 12,753 Ukrainians were suspected of crimes this year, mostly involving drunk driving or theft.

(gs)

Source: PAP