Polish Episcopal Conference addresses migration and social hostility

The Polish Episcopal Conference Council for Migrants and Refugees has issued a statement addressing the rising atmosphere of hostility toward migrants and refugees. The communique follows a violent incident in Jarosław, where a Ukrainian national stabbed three priests and two laypeople at a Benedictine convent, resulting in one death.

The Council emphasized that defending the rights of migrants is a fundamental Christian duty, citing the Gospel and the teachings of Pope John Paul II. They condemned all acts of hostility and verbal attacks against foreigners, stating such behavior is incompatible with Christian principles.

In conjunction with the 112th World Day of Migrants and Refugees, the III Conference on Migration titled ‘Migrants and Refugees in Poland: Between Assimilation and Integration’ is scheduled for September 28, 2026, in Ząbki. The event aims to foster dialogue between the Catholic Church, NGOs, academic institutions, and public administration regarding the social, economic, and religious impacts of migration in Poland.