Polish religious leaders warn of rising hostility towards Ukrainian refugees

A coalition of religious leaders in Poland, known as Wspólnota Sumienia (Community of Conscience), has issued a statement expressing deep concern over a disturbing shift in attitudes towards Ukrainian refugees. The group observes a worrying increase in hostility and a decline in the solidarity that characterized the initial response to the influx of refugees following Russia's invasion in February 2022.

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We observe a disturbing change in attitudes towards Ukraine, and especially towards Ukrainian refugees living in Poland.

The statement highlights a transition from widespread compassion and a willingness to help to more negative sentiments. While acknowledging that sustained positive mobilization is difficult, the leaders are alarmed by the emergence of behaviors such as public expressions of dislike for Ukrainians, demands for their expulsion from Poland, and even violent attacks on individuals and institutions. Recent times have seen a surge in such incidents, accompanied by rhetoric questioning the necessity of Ukraine's defense and framing the conflict as "not our war."

Furthermore, the coalition points to the rise of activists who target individuals of Ukrainian descent in public life and state institutions, advocating for their removal. Wspólnota Sumienia strongly condemns this escalating anti-Ukrainian rhetoric, asserting that nothing can justify it. They acknowledge that concerns about the strain on social support systems or healthcare, and unfair competition from Ukrainian farmers, may point to real challenges that state institutions should address.

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We believe that the rising wave of anti-Ukrainian rhetoric is very harmful. Nothing can justify it.

However, the leaders emphasize that using these issues to incite hatred, propagate hate speech, or encourage physical aggression is deplorable and destructive, posing a threat to social cohesion in Poland. They firmly state that Ukrainians make significant positive contributions to the Polish economy and culture. Drawing upon religious and cultural traditions that advocate for aiding those in need, especially those fleeing mortal danger, the coalition urges Poles to act with conscience and uphold the values of mutual respect and support that were evident in 2022.

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It is obvious that Ukrainians make a significant positive contribution to the Polish economy and culture.