Introduction
A recent report from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and Deloitte highlights the positive impact of Ukrainian refugees on the Polish economy, countering common misconceptions regarding unemployment and wages.Context
As Poland continues to host over a million Ukrainian refugees, public sentiment has experienced fluctuations, with some segments growing weary of the ongoing influx. This dissatisfaction has been leveraged by certain political factions, who advocate for limiting benefits for Ukrainians and prioritizing Polish citizens in public services.Developments
Rafał Kostrzyński, a UNHCR spokesperson, emphasized the report's findings during its launch, stating that the perception of a negative economic impact from refugees is unfounded. The influx of Ukrainian refugees has not only prevented wage declines for Polish workers but has also contributed to a vibrant economy, enhancing Poland's GDP by an impressive 2.7% in 2024.The report indicates that Ukrainian refugees have played a significant role in increasing productivity and diversification within the Polish economy. Poles across different political views agree on the importance of continuing to support Ukraine amid the war, despite rising anti-Ukrainian sentiments ahead of May's presidential elections.
Despite these contributions, the report notes that many Ukrainian refugees are employed in roles beneath their qualifications, with only one-third of university graduates working in positions that match their degrees. Language barriers, particularly a lack of fluency in Polish, further hinder their full integration into the labor market.
Moreover, the report suggests that improving the integration of Ukrainians could yield macroeconomic benefits of approximately 6 billion zlotys annually.