Ukrainian Ambassador to Poland Vasyl Bodnar has drawn criticism after saying that Ukrainian refugees do not plan to fully assimilate into Polish society. In a Facebook post, Bodnar responded to concerns about a new law that allows Ukrainian to be taught as a second foreign language in Polish schools if parents request it and resources are available.
He praised the economic contributions of refugees but wrote, “We want to help our children preserve our identity, contribute to their return home to Ukraine when the security situation allows it. We are for socialization and integration, but it is clear that we are not for assimilation.”
The statement comes as Poland hosts more than a million Ukrainian refugees who fled after Russia’s invasion in 2022. Many Poles have voiced frustration with government benefits for refugees and worry that separate language and cultural practices could deepen social divisions.
Relations between Poland and Ukraine were already tense due to disputes over grain imports and historical issues, including the World War II-era Volhynia massacres. Tensions rose further last month when a Ukrainian nationalist flag was displayed at a Warsaw stadium, prompting calls to ban symbols linked to anti-Polish violence.
Poland, long known for its ethnic homogeneity, now faces a debate over how to integrate its large Ukrainian community. Bodnar said Ukrainians remain grateful for Poland’s support and do not seek to interfere in domestic affairs, but critics warn that rejecting assimilation could create long-term social and political challenges.
