Ukrainian writer believes that shortly her compatriots in the Polish passport will have an impact on elections in Poland

In the coming years Ukrainian immigrants can become an crucial origin in policy-making in Poland – provides for Oleń Babakov in an article published in European Truth. Although Ukrainian citizens do not presently have the rights of theThe dynamic growth of naturalization in Poland can shortly change this situation.

Why do Ukrainians not vote in Poland?

According to the journalist, politicians in Poland do not take the vote of Ukrainian citizens into their electoral strategies for the time being, due to the fact that these, apart from a fewer exceptions, do not have the right to vote. The naturalization rate in Poland is just 1.7%, whereas the Union average is 2.2%. Ukrainian migrants seldom choose to accept Polish citizenship, which is not only a typical phenomenon for this group.

More Ukrainians with Polish passport

However, the situation may change in the coming years. According to data in 2015 Polish citizenship received ca. 2,000. Ukrainians, while in 2023 This number increased to 5,6 thousand.and forecasts for 2024 year indicate further growth.

In years 2021-2024 rod 39.1 thousand. Ukrainian citizens obtained in Poland EU long-term resident statuswhich means they were in the country at least 5 years. Many of them will most likely apply for Polish citizenship. A akin situation affects more than 23 000 peoplewhich in years 2023-2024 received permanent residence permit.

Ukraine's fresh law will facilitate dual citizenship

Changes in Ukrainian law may besides be a key factor. In December 2024 The ultimate Council of Ukraine adopted the bill "On multiple citizenship", which enables Ukrainians to have citizenship of another countries – provided that they are Ukrainian friendly countries, mainly members EU and NATO.

Ukrainians as a fresh electorate in Poland?

The increasing number of Ukrainians with Polish passport may affect political landscape in Poland. In the future, their voice can become significant factor the election, which will force political parties to take their demands into account.

As Babakova emphasizes, although Ukrainian citizens presently do not play a crucial function in the Polish elections, their influence may increase over the coming years. Politicians will gotta number on their voice, which could affect the speech of the public debate on Ukraine and its citizens in Poland.