Poland leads the EU in the number of employed Ukrainians, but the attitude toward refugees is deteriorating.

Poland and Germany lead Europe in employing Ukrainians, according to the Institute of Demography and Social Research. The largest number of Ukrainians is employed in Poland, thanks to less stringent language requirements and employment opportunities that do not require special qualifications. In Germany, a smaller percentage of Ukrainians are employed due to stricter requirements, particularly concerning language skills.

However, the attitude in Polish society toward Ukrainian refugees is gradually changing. This shift is evidenced by a study conducted by the University of Warsaw. One of its authors, Dr. Robert Staniszewski, noted that criticism and negative sentiments toward Ukrainian refugees are increasingly evident among Poles. Approximately 40% of those surveyed perceive the presence of Ukrainians as a threat, citing concerns about increased crime and issues with law enforcement. Even Ukrainians’ contributions to addressing labor market shortages are viewed by some as a threat.

As of early February, about a million Ukrainian refugees were officially residing in Poland.