Polish president Vetoes Aid Bill for Ukrainian Refugees, Czech republic curtails Benefits
Warsaw/Prague – August 26, 2024 - A bill providing aid to Ukrainian refugees living in Poland has been vetoed by President Andrzej Duda, perhaps jeopardizing financing for Ukraine‘s Starlink satellite internet access. Simultaneously, a new czech law, “Lex Ukraine,” is resulting in the loss of financial assistance for many Ukrainian refugees employed in the Czech Republic.
President Duda’s veto, announced today, stems from concerns about the bill’s conditions and potential long-term implications for Polish citizenship. According to Polish news outlet TVP World, Duda intends to submit his own proposals for revisions. These include stricter employment requirements for refugees and extending the residency period required to qualify for Polish citizenship from three to ten years. The Polish parliament can override the presidential veto, but requires a three-fifths majority, with at least half of all deputies present to vote. Reuters notes that the Polish President has the power to both propose legislation and veto laws passed by parliament, a power the parliament can, in turn, challenge.
the veto casts uncertainty over continued financial support for Ukraine, specifically regarding Starlink. Poland had reportedly ensured financing for the satellite internet service until the end of September. Without the law’s enactment, Ukraine will be responsible for securing choice funding from October 1st onwards.
Czech republic Tightens Support for Ukrainian Refugees
The developments in Poland coincide with changes in the Czech Republic’s approach to supporting Ukrainian refugees.This year, the Czech Republic implemented “Lex Ukraine,” legislation regulating the status and support provided to Ukrainian refugees within its borders. Currently, temporary protection is granted until 2026, with the possibility of annual extensions.
however, the law also introduces conditions for continued financial assistance. Refugees with temporary protection are eligible for financial aid amounting to 3,130 CZK (Czech Koruna) for adults,4,860 CZK for vulnerable adults,and 3,490 CZK for children. This assistance is now contingent on refugees not being employed and earning an income exceeding the minimum living wage plus housing costs, or being unable to demonstrate their children are enrolled in school. This effectively means many working refugees are losing access to these benefits.
Context: The Ongoing Refugee crisis & Regional Support
These shifts in policy reflect a growing strain on resources and evolving public sentiment within both Poland and the Czech Republic, two nations that have been at the forefront of providing support to Ukrainians displaced by the ongoing conflict with Russia. Since the full-scale invasion began in Febuary 2022, millions of ukrainians have sought refuge in neighboring countries, with Poland and the Czech Republic absorbing a important portion.
Initially, both countries offered generous support packages, including access to healthcare, education, and financial assistance. However, as the conflict continues and the economic impact of hosting a large refugee population becomes more pronounced, governments are facing increasing pressure to reassess their policies. The debate centers around balancing humanitarian obligations with domestic economic concerns and ensuring the long-term sustainability of support programs.