Selected Aid and Support Measures Provided to War Refugees From Ukraine in Poland. Revision of Data Three Years After the Invasion

Abstract

Introduction: This article synthesizes and exemplifies the current state of aid and support measures offered to war refugees from Ukraine. Readers are introduced to the forms of international protection granted to foreigners in Poland, and specific types of social assistance, educational support, medical care, and professional activity are characterized based on the review of statistical data and previously published studies. Throughout the Russo-Ukrainian war, statistics on the support offered have changed, sometimes leading to contradictory and inaccurate reports being released to the public.

Research Aim: This paper examines the situation of aid and social support measures offered to refugees from Ukraine after three years of the ongoing armed conflict from the perspective of the Polish State as a necessary entity satisfying social needs and expectations. Statistical data collected over time on expenditures and the number of people who, thanks to this data, were able to meet specific life needs, were analysed.

Evidence-based Facts: Poland has been one of the first European countries to take a series of aid and support measures for the refugees from Ukraine. The initial bottom-up social initiatives have transformed into an efficient aid scheme that has functioned despite the prolonged war until this day.

Summary: Despite the lack of experience, Polish state and non-state entities responsible for managing migration policy have attempted to avoid the negative consequences resulting from a large influx of people due to the competitiveness of Polish and Ukrainian nationals on the labour market, and overloading the health care or the education system. Thanks to learning Polish, educational activities, creating and gradually developing job offers on the market, many women have taken up employment.