After the full-scale Russian invasion, the role of Ukrainians in the Polish economy only increased.
Ukrainians have become an integral part of Polish society and make a significant contribution to the country's economy.
This was stated by the Chargé d'affaires of Poland in Ukraine, Piotr Lukasiewicz, in an interview with Ukrinform.
13% of Polish GDP is the contribution of Ukrainians
According to the diplomat, between 2008 and 2019, about 13% of Poland's gross domestic product was generated by Ukrainians who lived, worked, created businesses and integrated into Polish society.
“This is the real economic influence of the Ukrainian minority in Poland,” Lukasiewicz emphasized.
Noticeable effect after 2022
After Russia's full-scale invasion, the role of Ukrainians in Poland's economy only increased. The ambassador noted that Poland's 2.7% economic growth in 2022 was largely due to Ukrainian refugees.
He said 80% of them have formal jobs and pay taxes, which is “strong evidence of integration and economic benefit.”
Social policy: there will be no changes
Lukasiewicz stressed that he does not expect any significant changes in Poland’s attitude towards Ukrainians.
“In every normal country, social policy is adjusted to improve efficiency. But this is not about radical changes,” he noted.
He also noted that Ukrainians in Poland continue to have access to social services on an equal basis with Polish citizens, especially the most vulnerable categories.
“There are no dramatic changes on the horizon. Maybe just some minor adjustments, as in other EU countries,” Lukasiewicz concluded.
Earlier it was reported that skepticism is growing among Poles regarding Ukraine’s integration into the European Union and NATO.
