Russian propaganda has long—and with some success—promoted the idea that Poles and Ukrainians are apparently unable to coexist, that refugees are exploiting Poland’s welfare system, and that Poles have grown tired of supporting them. The latest report from the National Bank of Poland (NBP), however, is likely to disappoint those who spread such propaganda in Poland.
Russia’s information strategy in Poland rests on several key pillars, most of them aimed at undermining Polish-Ukrainian relations. These include instilling fear that Ukraine is trying to drag Poland into the war and portraying Ukrainian refugees as a financial burden.Generally, the aim of Russian disinformation in Poland is to present, in all possible contexts, the thesis that Poles and Ukrainians are two nations doomed to conflict.
In late November, the National Bank of Poland (NBP) published a report titled Living and Economic Situation of Immigrants from Ukraine in Poland in 2025. Its main findings are summarised below.
- Russian Narrative: “Ukrainians live off Polish money. Reality: 78–92% are self-sufficient through employment.
One of the Kremlin’s favourite motifs is the image of the “Ukrainian parasite” living off Polish benefits. This is an emotionally charged narrative that resonates in many European countries. Meanwhile, the data from the NBP report is unambiguous: However, data from the NBP report clearly show that:
- Among migrants who arrived before 2022, 92% support themselves through employment.
- Among war refugees, 78% support themselves through employment. Social benefits—including the 800+ programme—serve only as supplemental income.
These figures directly contradict the core of the Russian narrative, which since the beginning of the war has attempted to persuade Poles that they are “supporting million foreigners.” In reality, the vast majority of these individuals work, pay taxes, and bolster sectors of the Polish economy that face chronic labour shortages.
- Russian Narrative: “Ukrainians do not integrate.” Reality: Growing language proficiency and increasing independence.
The NBP report shows that 63% of migrants declare a good knowledge of Polish, and only 4% declare a lack of it.. Among pre-war immigrants, the level
of Polish language is even higher: over 82% report good (49%) or fluent (34%) command of Polish.
Most immigrants—81%—meet their housing needs independently, primarily by renting (72%) or purchasing their own accommodation (9%). The number of people staying in collective refugee centres continues to decline.
For the first time, the survey asked whether Ukrainian immigrants have Polish acquaintances they can turn to in difficult situations—and how many. A notable 73% reported having at least one Polish person they can ask for help or advice.
COMMENTS