The survey, a collaborative effort by the University of Warsaw (UW) and AEH, marks the eighth since 2022 and shows a decline in Polish support for Ukrainian issues, except in education.
The study found that 82% of respondents support allowing Ukrainian children to attend school in Poland. However, the introduction of Ukrainian curriculum in Polish schools faces resistance, with half favoring Polish curriculum for Ukrainian students, and 40% supporting a curriculum developed through Polish-Ukrainian cooperation.
The survey highlights a perceived "dependent position" of Ukrainians, with many Poles believing that Ukrainians feel entitled to the same rights and benefits. This is coupled with a noted increase in the recognition of cultural differences, attributed to an "Eastern mentality" and a lack of commitment to the common good, remnants of Soviet influence.
Public opinion on aiding Ukraine has also shifted significantly. Only 31% of respondents now strongly believe Poland should assist Ukraine, a steep decline from 62% in January 2023. Additionally, 72% think Poland should prioritize its own interests, especially concerning food exports.
The willingness to accept Ukrainian refugees has also fallen, with only 17% of Poles currently open to the idea of settlement, down from 37% last year. The majority (61%) believe Ukrainians should return home after the war, while 23% are agreeable to them staying.
Concerning benefits, most Poles feel that assistance to Ukrainians should be curtailed, with benefits from 2025 onward restricted to children enrolled in Polish schools.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's approval ratings in Poland are low, with only 7% holding a very positive view and 18% a very negative one.
In response to the changing public sentiment, Polish President Andrzej Duta has signed amendments to the Law on Assistance to Ukrainian Refugees, extending their period of temporary protection until September 2025. This extension ensures continued access to health services, family, and social benefits, and collective accommodation options.