The Activities of the Polish Red Cross as an Element of Cultural Integration of Ukrainian Migrants

Abstract

       Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, which began on February 24, 2022, has resulted in a rapid influx of refugees into Poland, numbering several million. The armed conflict on the territory of Ukraine, which began in 2022, has entailed a number of social consequences. Local governments, government administration, public institutions, social, non-governmental and church organizations, entrepreneurs and residents have all joined forces to provide assistance to Ukrainian citizens. NGOs play a key role in helping the Ukrainian community in Poland. Their activities include helping refugees in Poland, providing humanitarian support to Ukraine, as well as countering disinformation and building communication bridges. The Polish Red Cross is one of the many entities that actively participate in adaptation and integration processes for Ukrainian citizens. This institution focuses primarily on helping people from Ukraine within long-term integration programs. The Polish Red Cross is constantly developing activation programs that provide refugees from Ukraine with stabilization and social integration. As part of the active activities of the Polish Red Cross, refugees receive comprehensive assistance in the areas of education, employment, health care and psychological support. The aim of this article is to attempt to analyse the forms of assistance and support for Ukrainian refugees implemented by the Polish Red Cross.

Keywords: non-governmental organizations, humanitarian aid, support, integration, adaptation