For First Time, More Poles Oppose Accepting Ukrainian Refugees Than Support It
A new CBOS poll shows that 52% of Poles now oppose accepting Ukrainian refugees, while 42% support it — a historic reversal since surveys began in 2014.
For the first time since the Centre for Public Opinion Research (CBOS) began tracking the issue in 2014, a majority of Poles (52%) believe Poland should not accept refugees from Ukraine, with 42% in favor. Immediately after Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, support stood at 94%.
The change is part of a long-term trend observed since mid-2023. Compared to December last year, the share of opponents rose by 6 percentage points, while supporters fell by the same margin.
Regarding aid, 54% of respondents think assistance given to Ukrainian refugees is excessive, 40% consider it adequate, and 3% insufficient. The proportion deeming aid excessive has grown since September.
Poles show mixed views on specific policy changes. 87% support limiting access to full medical services for Ukrainians who do not pay health insurance contributions. However, 58% oppose scrapping free accommodation in collective centers for mothers with children over one year old; only 29% support it.
Separately, hate crimes against Ukrainians in Poland have risen by over 30% in the last six months compared to the same period last year. Ukrainian Ambassador to Poland Vasyl Bodnar expressed hope it is a "temporary phenomenon."
