Summary of activities taken to date and further assistance plans

For two weeks now, the eyes of the entire world have been on Ukraine, which has been attacked by Russia. Poland has been supporting its eastern neighbour since the very onset of hostilities, not only in terms of diplomatic action but above all real humanitarian aid.

Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki took part in a video call with Polish province governors. The meeting was attended by Michał Dworczyk – Head of the Chancellery of the Prime Minister – and top officials of the Ministry of Interior and Administration, Ministry of Family and Social Policy, Ministry of Health and Ministry of Infrastructure. Also present were representatives of other institutions responsible for helping refugees, including the Police, State Fire Service, Border Guard and Office for Foreigners.

During the meeting, the province governors summarised their activities to date and presented further assistance plans. The topics discussed included the functioning of and equipment available at refugee reception points, as well as plans for the further reception and relocation of refugees.

Poland shows solidarity with Ukraine by providing humanitarian aid in time of need

War refugees who have crossed into Poland receive comprehensive humanitarian, logistical, operational and financial assistance. This enormous humanitarian effort involves state and local authorities, but also thousands of ordinary Polish citizens.

There are already as many as 36 reception points, established by governors in cooperation with local authorities, which are ready to assist Ukrainian refugees. Persons arriving at such points can receive information about their stay in Poland and basic medical care; they also have a place to rest and can be provided with temporary accommodation.

Further, a logistics hub has been set up near Lublin, eastern Poland, to manage aid to be transported into Ukraine itself. Lorries with supplies provided by Poland’s Government Strategic Reserve Agency cross the Poland–Ukraine border every day, bringing food, medicine and medical dressings to those in need.

New act to regulate aid for Ukraine

The Polish parliament is working on a bill focused on providing assistance to Ukrainian citizens due to the armed conflict. This special legal act is meant to regulate further assistance for Ukrainians and includes provisions on such things as enabling them to work in Poland and gain access to health care and education services. The act will also enable Ukrainians to legally stay in Poland for 18 months. Moreover, Poles who have generously provided accommodation to Ukrainian citizens fleeing the war will receive financial assistance.