A women’s shelter for refugees in Poland fights for survival as anti-Ukrainian sentiment rises
Summary
A women’s shelter in Krakow, Poland called Martynka helps Ukrainian refugee women who face violence or abuse. After the war in Ukraine began in 2022, many refugees arrived in Poland, but support is now shrinking as funding decreases and anti-Ukrainian attitudes grow.Key Facts
- Nastya Podorozhnya, a Ukrainian refugee, started Martynka to support female Ukrainian refugees escaping violence.
- Martynka provides shelter, medical help, psychological support, jobs, and housing to women and children.
- More than 100 women and children have used the shelter in Krakow.
- At the start of the Ukraine war in February 2022, Poland welcomed about 3.5 million Ukrainian refugees.
- Initially, Polish volunteers and the government offered strong support, including job access and social benefits.
- Over time, funding for refugee aid has declined as donors focus on other crises.
- Hostility and political exploitation of anti-Ukrainian feelings are increasing in Poland.
- This rising hostility makes it harder for organizations like Martynka to raise money and operate safely.
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