Eastern European politicians use negative narratives against Ukrainian refugees, despite public tolerance shown by many citizens.
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Politicians in Romania, Poland, and Czechia frequently use narratives against Ukrainian refugees, often claiming they receive more rights and benefits than local citizens. A study showed millions of non-EU citizens from Ukraine are hosted across Europe, with significant numbers in Romania, Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic. In Romania, some politicians have used the war as an electoral tool, while surveys indicate that most Romanians maintain a high level of tolerance towards Ukrainian refugees, though about one in five views them as a threat, particularly among certain demographics and voters for nationalist parties. Experts attribute aggressive anti-Ukrainian discourse online to Russia’s hybrid warfare propaganda. Politically, this rhetoric is linked to existing nationalistic tendencies in Romania, which are being adapted to the current context. In Poland and Czechia, similar narratives circulate, claiming Ukrainians benefit disproportionately; however, data suggests Ukrainian refugees contribute positively to the economies of both countries. In Hungary, the focus is more on the Kyiv regime and the war itself, with rhetoric suggesting Ukrainians threaten local jobs or increase crime. Despite these political campaigns, public opinion in Poland and Czechia remains largely positive regarding integration, while a majority in Romania remains moderate on the issue.
