Reported Hate Crimes Against Ukrainians Surge 30 Percent in 2026
Police data show a sharp rise in reported hate incidents targeting Ukraine's largest immigrant community, amid diplomatic tensions and recent violent attacks.
The number of reported hate crimes against Ukrainians in Poland jumped 30 percent in the first half of 2026 compared to the same period last year, according to newly released police data reported by Rzeczpospolita.
Officers received 180 reports of hate crimes against Ukrainians in H1 2026, up from roughly 138 reports in the first six months of 2025. The spike follows several high-profile incidents of verbal and physical attacks on Ukrainian residents—the country's largest foreign national group at around 1.6 million—as well as ongoing political tensions between Warsaw and Kyiv.
The Real Picture
Experts caution that reported figures underestimate the true scale of the problem. Jacek Kucharczyk, head of the Institute of Public Affairs think tank, told Rzeczpospolita: "Some victims don't want to report a crime because they're simply afraid." Police data capture only incidents that victims or witnesses formally report; many go unreported entirely.
Government and Political Response
Prime Minister Donald Tusk called last week's bus incident—where a man verbally assaulted a Ukrainian woman—"disgusting" and warned of "disastrous consequences" of inciting national hatred. Interior minister Marcin Kierwiński promised that the state would deal with any form of aggression, though he also blamed the right-wing opposition for stirring antipathy. Ukraine's ambassador to Poland said he hoped the recent wave is a "temporary symptom" that will pass, noting that Poland's entire political class condemned the latest attack.
For expats: If you are Ukrainian or belong to any visible minority in Poland, be aware that hate crimes are on the rise. Report incidents to local police (tel. 997) even if you're concerned about response—data collection helps authorities understand the problem's scope. Learn basic Polish phrases to request police assistance. Connect with Ukrainian community groups and expat support networks for resources and solidarity.
Sources
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