Assessment of the situation of migrants in Kraków

Assessment of the situation of forced migrants in Kraków –

In recent years, Kraków has become one of the key destinations for those forced to flee their homes—especially following the outbreak of the full-scale war in Ukraine. This publication was created to answer one of the most critical questions: what is the actual situation of forced migrants, and how can cities respond more effectively? Prepared in collaboration with academic centers and experts, it serves as a tool for local governments, institutions, and organizations aiming to design effective, data-driven integration policies. It demonstrates how the knowledge and experiences of those we assist every day can be translated into concrete systemic solutions.

This is a report that begins with facts—and leads to change.

The publication provides a comprehensive overview of the situation of forced migrants in Kraków—from their legal status and access to the labor market to housing and education. We present not only the scale of the phenomenon, but also its dynamics—evolving needs and challenges that require a flexible and long-term response from the city.

Labour market: rapid adaptation but not without barriers. The data show that most forced migrants enter the labor market relatively quickly; however, they often work below their qualifications and in sectors requiring lower language proficiency. At the same time, some individuals remain outside the labor market—due, among other reasons, to caregiving responsibilities or systemic barriers. This clearly shows that economic integration is possible, but it requires better-designed support.

Housing: one of the greatest systemic challenges The report points out that stable housing remains a primary concern. High rental prices, limited housing availability, and the uncertainty of landlords are barriers that hinder migrants from becoming self-sufficient. This is an area where systemic solutions are necessary—going beyond temporary, emergency measures.

Support system: it works, but requires adaptation. Integration programs offer tangible support—ranging from language learning to financial assistance and professional activation—yet their effectiveness depends on being tailored to individual needs. That is why an approach based on diagnosis and continuous monitoring of the situation is so crucial.

Data as a tool for shaping public policy.

One of the report’s key conclusions is the need for systematic monitoring of migrants’ situation and for adapting urban policies to dynamic changes.

This is precisely where we see the role of organizations such as the Czulent Jewish Association—as actors that not only respond to crises, but also provide the knowledge needed to address them.

We combine experience, research, and practical action.

Our work is based on direct engagement with people experiencing exclusion, collaboration with academic institutions, and data analysis. This allows us to identify gaps in the system and propose concrete solutions—from the local level to public policy.

This publication is more than just a diagnosis. It is a starting point for change—showing that effective integration is not accidental, but the result of deliberately designed actions based on knowledge, cooperation, and institutional responsibility.

The diagnosis was prepared as part of the commissioned public task: ‘Participatory development of recommendations for updating the integration policy for foreigners and representatives of national and ethnic minorities in Kraków – Participatory development of the update of the “Open Kraków” Programme,’ which was carried out by the Czulent Jewish Association, Internationaler Bund Polska, and the Poland–Ukraine Institute Foundation, with the support of the Observatory of Multiculturalism and Migration.