Poland’s special law providing aid to Ukrainian refugees has expired, leaving cancer patients, parents, and the disabled without crucial support as of March 5th.
Alarming Concerns from NGOs
Dozens of NGOs, including the Polish Migration Forum, Ukrainian Association in Poland, and organizations led by Agnieszka Holland and Hanna Machińska, have sent an open letter to three ministries outlining the negative consequences of the law’s expiration.
The letter details the impact on vulnerable groups, including oncology patients undergoing treatment, parents of young children, and individuals with disabilities.
Gaps in Regulations Leave Many Unsupported
Agnieszka Kosowicz, president of the Polish Migration Forum, points to loopholes in the new regulations that prevent those most in need from receiving assistance. She states they are currently supporting individuals eligible for aid who cannot prove their status.
Oncology Patients Face Interrupted Treatment
The changes particularly affect patients undergoing specialized treatment, with some losing access to medication and procedures mid-therapy. These individuals often lack the means to continue treatment or earn income due to their health conditions.
Kosowicz notes cases of individuals left without medical care, insurance, or housing, with no path to improve their situation.
Impact on Child Benefits and Disability Support
The expiration of the special law also affects parents and caregivers reliant on the 800+ child benefit and disability allowances. Many are losing these funds as the 800+ benefit is now tied to employment and school attendance.
Grandparents providing childcare and individuals without Polish disability assessments are also facing hardship, with some losing their own benefits and support for the children they care for.
Absurd Situations and Lack of Transition Periods
The Polish Migration Forum highlights cases of individuals unable to return to destroyed homes, lacking funds for independent living, and without access to oncology treatment. They criticize the lack of transition periods and clear guidelines for social assistance institutions.
Kosowicz emphasizes that social workers feel lost and unprepared, leading to situations where vulnerable individuals are being directed to homeless shelters.
Call for Inter-Ministerial Dialogue and Empathy
The organizations urge a real dialogue between the Ministries of Labor, Health, and Internal Affairs to establish practical implementation of the regulations and clarify responsibility for assisting the most vulnerable.
Kosowicz also appeals to the public for empathy and restraint in language, noting a growing hostility towards refugees.
New Protection System to Begin in 2026
The law signed by President Karol Nawrocki on February 19th gradually phases out the special regulations for Ukrainian refugees while maintaining temporary protection until March 4, 2027. The previous “specustawa” created a separate legal system simplifying rules for refugees; the new law integrates them into the general system for foreign nationals seeking protection.
PAP requested comment from the Ministries of Interior and Administration, Health, and Family, Labour and Social Policy but had not received a response at the time of publication.