In a recent poll by the Pollster Research Institute for Super Express daily, respondents were asked whether Poland should continue providing financial aid, including the flagship "500-plus" child benefit, to Ukrainian citizens residing within its borders.
Thirty-six percent of those surveyed responded with a firm "no," and 24 percent said "probably not."
Meanwhile, 18 percent leaned toward "probably yes," 8 percent expressed a definite “yes," and 14 percent did not know, according to the PAP news agency.
"Poles are willing to help Ukrainians, but now they increasingly prefer to do so in a manner that doesn't harm their own interests,” commented political scientist Prof. Kazimierz Kik.
“While Poles maintain empathy for refugees, it appears that they cannot disregard their own concerns," he added.
Kik also said that recent statements by the Polish government about Ukrainian grain imports played a role in bringing about a shift in attitudes among respondents.
“Furthermore, all across Europe, there is a growing reluctance toward migrants," Kik observed.
The survey was conducted from September 21 to 22 on a sample of 1,015 adult Poles.
In another recent survey, 65 percent of Poles said they were in favour of accepting refugees from war-torn Ukraine.
In March last year, Poland enacted a measure to offer wide-ranging support to Ukrainians escaping the Russian invasion of their country.
The measure grants them residence rights and ensures access to education, healthcare and social benefits.
Ukrainians can apply for Poland’s flagship "500-plus" child benefit, the Family Welfare Capital allowance and help with the costs of paying for nursery care, among other benefits.
To apply, a refugee needs to have a PESEL national identification number, a bank account and a Polish telephone number, according to Poland's Social Insurance Institution (ZUS).
(mo/gs)
Source: PAP, dorzeczy.pl
