Poland's President Blocks Child Benefit Law for Ukrainian Refugees

The political landscape in Poland has shifted as President Karol Nawrocki exercised his veto against a proposed law aimed at extending child benefits for Ukrainian refugees. This decision underscores a growing debate regarding social welfare provisions for refugees in the country.

The law, which had garnered support from the center-left coalition led by Prime Minister Donald Tusk, aimed to continue providing financial assistance to Ukrainian families until March 2026. Currently, Ukrainian nationals with refugee status in Poland receive approximately EUR180 per month for each child. Additionally, families with more than one child receive an extra monthly care allowance of EUR117 for the first two years. These benefits align Ukrainian refugees' rights with those of Polish families, granting them access to education and healthcare services.

President Nawrocki, associated with the right-wing Law and Justice Party (PiS), justified his veto by asserting that only refugees who are employed in Poland should be eligible for these benefits. He expressed concerns that the existing law does not reflect the ongoing societal debate surrounding this issue. The President's stance signals a potential shift towards more stringent criteria for welfare support.

Under the current situation, around 989,000 Ukrainian nationals hold refugee status in Poland, with a notable employment rate among them, estimated at 65%. This figure is nearly double that of Ukrainian refugees in Germany, highlighting the active role many play in the Polish labor market. Nevertheless, the PiS party advocates for a more selective approach to social benefits, linking them directly to employment status.

In contrast, Poland lacks a universal social benefit system for adults without disabilities who are unable to find work, setting it apart from other European countries like Germany. The ongoing tensions between President Nawrocki and Prime Minister Tusk, who belong to opposing political factions, have intensified discussions around the future of social support for refugees.

As the situation evolves, the implications of these political decisions will likely affect not only the Ukrainian community in Poland but also the broader discourse on immigration and social welfare in the country.