Someone with no interest in sports - especially in arenas dominated by aggressive fans, including extreme radicals - might not realize the reason behind the international uproar following the season opener at one of Warsaw’s stadiums.
The controversy, which has sparked reactions from both sides of the political spectrum and has been discussed in several European countries, centers on a display that appeared in response to a banner reading "Refugees welcome."
Outrage over Polish fan display with derisive banner and hate-filled music
This banner was juxtaposed with images of three figures: a blonde Slavic woman with a pig's head on a platter, a stadium “fan” holding a baseball bat (a common sight among hooligans), and a typical worker with a hammer and a cap (symbolizing the working class).
These images could evoke a range of associations - both positive, reflecting Poland’s traditional hospitality towards foreigners, and negative, especially concerning the pork (which is non-kosher and forbidden for Muslims).
Despite the banner stating "Refugees welcome," everything surrounding it suggested derision, with the fans’ stance indicating a contrary opinion.
The most controversial aspect was the extremely negative musical accompaniment to the banner, which featured vulgar and hateful songs explicitly calling for animosity towards refugees.
UNHCR: Sport should promote inclusion, not hate
"I believe everyone would agree that sports should never be used to perpetuate hate speech and stigmatize refugees," Kevin J. Allen, quoted by the Polish Press Agency (PAP), emphasized.
"Sport, in the best traditions, represents the strength of spirit and overcoming challenges," added the refugee expert. He cited the upcoming Paris Olympic Games as a prime example of these universal values.
The Refugee Olympic Team, comprising 36 athletes from 11 countries, will symbolically represent over 100 million people forcibly displaced around the world.
“The destination may be the same, but the journey is very different” is the motto of the video material provided by UNHCR to highlight the challenges refugee athletes face in reaching their goals. For some, the goal is a sports trophy; for others, it is safe shelter from war trauma.
„When a refugee athlete steps up to the starting line, there’s a story behind them. A story that represents the reality of over 120 million people around the world who have been forced to flee their homes. One that represents the resilience of refugees and the power sport has to rebuild lives" - reported UNHCR.
Kevin J. Allen emphasized that “UNHCR understands the importance of regulating migration but also the necessity of protecting people who are forced to flee their homes due to war and persecution.” He also noted that Poles should deeply understand this need due to the role their citizens have played during many historical events.
UNHCR emphasizes Poland's historical understanding and economic gains from refugee support
“Poland and its people, rising from the ruins and ashes of World War II, appreciate this well-established principle of international law in a very personal way. Indeed, when asked to respond to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Poles demonstrated extraordinary solidarity, which has been widely recognized on the international stage,” stated the UN diplomat.
He added that while assisting refugees incurs costs for the state, it also brings significant economic benefits, as refugees, despite costing 1% of Poland's GDP in 2023, also pay taxes and social security contributions, and these costs may increase in 2024.
Legia Warsaw denounces controversial fan display, stands firm on refugee support
In response to the controversial fan display during the match against Zagłębie Lubin, Legia Warsaw issued a statement asserting that it respects diverse viewpoints, distancing itself from the stance of its fans, and highlighting its commitment to assisting refugees, particularly through the #GotowiDoPomocy initiative.
Source: PAP/UNHCR Poland/legia.com/x.com
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