The Polish social welfare strategy faces the challenge of adapting to a dynamically changing migration situation. Faced with the expanding number of Ukrainian citizens benefiting from the programme 800 plus, the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Policy announces changes to seal the strategy and guarantee that support goes to the most deprived.
Current situation: numbers talk for themselves
In 2024 Ukrainian citizens were paid over PLN 2.8 billion under the 800 plus programme, of which this benefit was received in December 292,000 Ukrainian children. By comparison, the second largest group of beneficiaries were citizens of Belarus who received benefits on 24 000 children. These data show the scale of support given to foreigners in Poland.
Planned changes: link of benefits to professional activity
In consequence to public opinion and policy proposals, The Ministry is considering introducing the criterion of professional activity as a condition for granting a benefit of 800 plus to Ukrainian citizens. This would mean that only people working and taxing in Poland would be entitled to this support. This step aims not only to reduce possible abuses but besides to encourage migrants to integrate into the Polish labour market.
System sealing: combating abuse
Deputy Minister Sebastian Gajewski stresses that all social benefit carries a hazard of abuse. In 2024, payment of benefits to $40,000 persons and the right to benefit for 20 thousand beneficiaries, mainly due to the fact that they leave Poland without the intention of returning. These actions show the government's determination to guarantee that the aid goes to people actually residing and integrating in Poland.
Professional activity of Ukrainians: affirmative indicators
Despite the challenges, data on the professional activity of Ukrainian citizens in Poland are promising. presently 78% Ukrainians of working age work and pay contributions to ZUS, which constitutes 5% all insured in Poland. specified a advanced employment rate shows the effective integration of this group into the Polish labour marketplace and their contribution to the national economy.
Social moods: divided opinions
The public debate on granting benefits to Ukrainian citizens raises mixed feelings in society. On the 1 hand, solidarity and support for refugees are appreciated, and on the another hand concerns arise over the burden on the social system. The introduction of the labour participation criterion can be a step towards balancing these 2 perspectives, providing support to those who actively contribute to the improvement of the country.
The future of the program: what awaits us?
The planned changes to the 800 plus programme aim at adapting it to the current socio-economic realities. Sealing the strategy and linking benefits to professional activity are steps that can increase the efficiency of support and advance the integration of migrants. The final form of the improvement will be the consequence of public consultation and expert analyses, taking into account both the needs of beneficiaries and the budgetary capacity of the state.
Changes to the 800 plus programme for citizens Ukraine is inevitable in the face of the dynamically changing migration and economical situation of Poland. It is crucial to find a balance between providing support to those in request and ensuring the financial stableness of the social system. The link between benefits and activity can be a step in the right direction, promoting integration and accountability on both the beneficiary and the State.
Continued here:
800 plus for Ukrainians: upcoming changes and strategy sealing
