Poland’s President Karol Nawrocki has vetoed a bill to extend welfare benefits for Ukrainian refugees, sparking political tensions and raising concerns over social support, jobs, and Poland-Ukraine relations.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Poland, once hailed as one of the most welcoming European countries for Ukrainians fleeing Russia’s full-scale invasion, is now facing a political and social crossroads. President Karol Nawrocki has vetoed legislation that would have prolonged welfare benefits for Ukrainian refugees, citing a need to reform the system and focus assistance only on those who are actively working.
The decision has not only deepened political rifts between Nawrocki and Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s government, but also reignited debates about Poland’s refugee policy, economic stability, and relations with Ukraine.
In this article, we’ll break down the reasons behind the veto, the political implications, the social response, and what it means for both Poland and the nearly 1 million Ukrainian refugees living within its borders.
Why Did President Nawrocki Veto the Legislation?
President Karol Nawrocki, who took office earlier this month, framed the veto as part of his campaign promise to tighten welfare payments. He argued that while Poland remains open to supporting Ukrainian citizens, the benefits system should evolve after more than three years of continuous aid.
His key points included:
- Only Ukrainians in work should qualify for child benefit payments.
- Poland must avoid what he called the “privileged treatment” of foreign nationals.
- A new legal proposal would soon be presented by his office to reform assistance.
This stance reflects a shift in public mood. While Poland initially mobilized extraordinary support for Ukrainian refugees in 2022, political pressure and growing anti-Ukrainian sentiment have pushed leaders to reconsider the long-term sustainability of such welfare programs.
The Government’s Strong Opposition
Prime Minister Donald Tusk and members of his government quickly criticized the veto, warning that such measures risk punishing innocent families and children.
Labour Minister Agnieszka Dziemianowicz-Bąk argued:
“We cannot punish people for losing their job – particularly not innocent children. This is the ABC of human decency.”
Tusk’s government believes that cutting child benefits—worth 800 złoty (£162) per month—will harm vulnerable refugee families who already face employment challenges, especially women and children.
The political standoff highlights Poland’s legislative deadlock, where both the president and the government have veto powers over each other’s proposals.
What Does This Mean for Refugees in Poland?
The veto comes at a critical moment, as the current benefits system expires in September. Without a new law in place, hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian families could lose financial support within weeks.
Key Implications:
- Financial Strain: Refugees without stable jobs may struggle to cover basic needs like rent, food, and healthcare.
- Legal Uncertainty: Until a new framework is passed, Ukrainian families will remain in limbo.
- Social Tensions: Rising anti-refugee rhetoric risks fueling divisions between Polish citizens and Ukrainian migrants.
For many families, this support has been a lifeline, especially given the high cost of living in Polish cities.
Starlink Funding at Risk
Interestingly, the veto also had an unexpected foreign policy consequence. Deputy Prime Minister Krzysztof Gawkowski claimed the veto could jeopardize Poland’s funding of Starlink satellite internet for Ukraine, a crucial tool in its defense against Russia.
This shows how domestic welfare policies are deeply connected to Poland’s geopolitical role in supporting Ukraine.
Poland’s Shifting Refugee Sentiment
Poland was initially one of the most generous nations in Europe during the refugee crisis of 2022. Millions of Poles opened their homes, volunteered at borders, and donated resources.
However, over time, resentment has grown:
- Politicians have used anti-Ukrainian rhetoric to gain support.
- Economic challenges have made citizens more sensitive to welfare distribution.
- Surveys show an increase in skepticism about long-term refugee support.
Yet, research paints a different picture. A Polish National Development Bank study revealed that Ukrainians contribute more in taxes than they receive in benefits, and their labour has been crucial for economic stability.
This raises the question: Is Poland sacrificing economic pragmatism for political populism?
Political Divide: Tusk vs. Nawrocki
This clash is also about power struggles.
- Donald Tusk, a liberal and pro-European leader, wants to maintain Poland’s humanitarian reputation.
- Karol Nawrocki, a right-wing president, reflects a more nationalist approach, prioritizing Polish citizens first.
Both leaders are now locked in a legislative deadlock. Each can veto the other’s proposals, creating a stalemate that risks leaving refugees without clarity.
International Reactions
Poland’s shift in refugee policy is being watched closely across Europe. Many EU countries face similar debates over long-term refugee support, welfare costs, and public opinion.
For Ukraine, Poland’s decision is particularly concerning, as it relies on Warsaw as a key ally in its war effort. Any decline in public solidarity may impact broader European unity.
Economic Angle: Refugees and Poland’s Workforce
The economic case for supporting refugees remains strong:
- Ukrainian workers fill crucial labour shortages in construction, agriculture, and services.
- Their tax contributions strengthen public finances.
- Cutting benefits may force many into the informal economy, reducing tax revenue.
Economists warn that short-term political gains could lead to long-term economic losses.
What’s Next?
President Nawrocki has promised to submit his own refugee aid proposal by the end of September. The key questions are:
- Will the new proposal balance humanitarian aid with stricter eligibility rules?
- Can the government and presidency find common ground to avoid leaving families without support?
- Will the veto weaken Poland-Ukraine relations at a critical stage in the war?
Until then, uncertainty looms for nearly 1 million Ukrainian refugees who call Poland their temporary home.
FAQs
Q1: How many Ukrainian refugees are in Poland today?
Over 1 million refugees, mostly women and children, remain in Poland as of 2025.
Q2: What was the vetoed legislation about?
It would have extended welfare benefits for refugees until March 2026, including 800 złoty per month child payments.
Q3: Why did President Nawrocki veto the bill?
He argued that only working refugees should receive benefits, fulfilling a campaign promise to tighten welfare rules.
Q4: How has the Polish government responded?
Prime Minister Donald Tusk and his ministers criticized the move, calling it harmful to vulnerable families.
Q5: What impact does this have on Ukraine?
The veto risks affecting Starlink internet funding and could strain PolPoland’s presidentand-Ukraine relations during the ongoing war.