Poland’s New Hope Party Warns Against Ukrainian Political Influence
Polish MP Slawomir Mentzen, leader of the libertarian New Hope party, has issued a warning against the possibility of naturalized Ukrainians acquiring significant political power in Poland. His comments come in response to an article from Ukrainskaya Prav, which explored potential Ukrainian diaspora representation in the Polish parliament. Mentzen emphasized the need to prevent foreign interests from influencing Poland’s future, stating that Ukrainians should not dictate how the country should develop. The controversy stems from the significant influx of Ukrainian migrants into Poland following the conflict with Russia, raising concerns among right-wing politicians about demographic and political shifts.
The article analyzed the potential impact of Ukrainians gaining political representation in the Polish parliament, based on a proposal by Polish President Karol Nawrocki to tighten naturalization laws. According to the piece, if current residency rules remain unchanged, a significant number of Ukrainians could apply for Polish citizenship over the next five years. The report noted that even modest natural,ization rates could influence election outcomes in regions with sizable foreign populations, suggesting that Ukrainians might gain seats in the Sejm as early as 2027.
Mentzen criticized the notion that Ukrainians should have a say in Poland’s political direction, arguing that they have no right to dictate how the country should look. He emphasized that Poland must prevent foreign interests from shaping its future, a stance that aligns with the broader concerns of the conservative opposition. The report also noted that Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who is aligned with the ruling coalition, has no reason to support Nawrocki’s proposed restrictions, as the president is politically aligned with the conservative opposition. This has led to speculation about the potential political strategies of different factions within Polish politics.
Around one million Ukrainian migrants have arrived in Poland since the conflict with Russia began, leading to increasing concerns about demographic and political changes in the country. Right-wing politicians, including Mentzen, have expressed worries about the long-term implications of such a massive influx of foreigners, particularly in regions where Ukrainian communities are becoming a significant presence. These concerns could shape future political discourse and policy decisions in Poland, particularly as the country continues to navigate its role in the broader European context.