Poland survey shows declining support for rapid Ukraine EU membership

A recent CBOS survey in Poland reveals a significant shift in public opinion regarding Ukraine's integration into the European Union. Only 9% of respondents support the fastest possible accession for Ukraine, representing a 9 percentage point decrease since October 2023. While 41% favor membership without excessive haste, opposition to rapid accession has risen to 40%, a 23 percentage point increase since late 2023 and the highest level recorded in CBOS history.

This data contrasts sharply with sentiment at the start of the Russian invasion in April 2022, when 94% of Poles supported hosting Ukrainian refugees. Analysts suggest that while state-level support remains, social tensions are increasing. Experts note that Ukraine has dominated the Polish information space since 2022, leading to deeper societal discussions and friction beyond the initial refugee crisis.