Listen to the article
Polish authorities have debunked a disinformation campaign that falsely claims Ukrainians receive privileged housing access in Warsaw, according to a report released yesterday by Ukraine’s Center for Countering Disinformation (CCD).
The CCD, which operates under Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council, identified a coordinated effort spreading through Polish social media aimed at creating social tensions between Poles and Ukrainian refugees. The campaign centers on viral videos alleging that certain municipal buildings in Warsaw are “exclusively for Ukrainians” and that refugee families receive preferential treatment in social housing allocation.
“In reality these statements are not true,” the CCD stated in their findings. “The City of Warsaw authorities officially refuted information about the existence of buildings designated only for Ukrainians. And the building featured in the video is not inhabited by Ukrainian citizens at all.”
Warsaw officials confirmed that the Polish capital does not allocate municipal housing based on nationality, and that Ukrainian refugees must meet the same criteria as Polish citizens when applying for public housing assistance.
The disinformation effort appears to be part of a broader campaign to undermine Polish-Ukrainian relations at a critical time. According to the CCD’s monitoring data, anti-Ukrainian messaging in Polish information spaces doubled between August and November 2023 compared to the previous reporting period.
Security experts view this trend with concern, as Poland has been one of Ukraine’s strongest supporters since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in February 2022. Poland has accepted approximately 1.5 million Ukrainian refugees – more than any other European country – and has been a vital logistics hub for Western military and humanitarian aid.
“The aim of this information wave is to form an impression of the alleged unfair distribution of social resources in favor of Ukrainian refugees,” the CCD explained. “Such narratives are systematically used to undermine public trust, radicalize attitudes among Poles, and decrease support for Ukraine and Ukrainians in Poland.”
This pattern reflects similar disinformation campaigns identified across other European countries hosting Ukrainian refugees. Intelligence analysts have attributed many of these efforts to Russian-backed information operations seeking to erode European unity on Ukraine support.
The housing-focused disinformation appears strategically designed to exploit genuine economic anxieties in Poland, where housing affordability was already a concern before the refugee crisis. By targeting social welfare issues, such campaigns attempt to frame Ukrainian refugees as economic competitors rather than war victims deserving humanitarian support.
Media literacy experts recommend that consumers approach such emotionally charged content with skepticism, particularly when videos make sweeping claims about preferential treatment without providing verifiable evidence or official sources.
The CCD emphasized the importance of fact-checking and maintaining a critical approach to such materials to prevent manipulation designed to weaken Polish-Ukrainian solidarity. Local Polish fact-checking organizations have also mobilized to debunk these false narratives.
Warsaw’s city government has responded by increasing transparency around its housing allocation processes and regularly publishing data that demonstrates equal treatment of all applicants regardless of nationality.
Despite these disinformation efforts, polls indicate that the majority of Polish citizens continue to support Ukraine, though social tensions have occasionally surfaced as the war extends into its third year and both countries face ongoing economic challenges.
Fact Checker
Verify the accuracy of this article using The Disinformation Commission analysis and real-time sources.
12 Comments
While I’m not surprised to see disinformation tactics used to target marginalized groups, it’s still troubling. I hope the authorities’ swift action to debunk these lies helps mitigate any potential damage to social cohesion. Accurate information is crucial during challenging times.
You make a good point. Disinformation often preys on fear and division, so a clear, fact-based response is vital to uphold the truth and maintain stability. Kudos to the officials for their transparency.
It’s disappointing to see this kind of coordinated disinformation campaign emerge, especially directed at vulnerable refugee populations. Fact-checking and clear communication from authorities are essential to uphold the truth and prevent the spread of harmful narratives.
Absolutely. Building an informed, inclusive society requires vigilance against malicious attempts to sow discord. I’m glad the authorities were quick to refute these false claims.
It’s disheartening to see disinformation being used to target and demonize Ukrainian refugees. These false claims about preferential treatment are clearly an attempt to stir up resentment and division. I’m glad the authorities acted quickly to debunk the lies and reaffirm their commitment to fair, equitable policies.
Absolutely. Spreading misinformation to create scapegoats is a common tactic of those who seek to divide and distract. Kudos to the officials for their transparent, fact-based response in defense of the truth and vulnerable populations.
This is a concerning example of how misinformation can be weaponized to create tensions and undermine support for vulnerable populations. I’m glad the authorities were proactive in refuting these false claims. Maintaining an informed, inclusive public discourse is essential during crises.
I agree. Disinformation campaigns like this seek to erode empathy and community solidarity. A robust, fact-based response from officials is crucial to counter these divisive tactics and uphold the values of an open, democratic society.
This is a concerning case of disinformation targeting Ukrainian refugees. It’s important that authorities swiftly address and debunk these false claims to prevent further tensions. Factual reporting is key to maintaining social cohesion during this challenging time.
I agree, spreading misinformation only serves to divide people when compassion and unity are needed. Transparent communication from officials is crucial to counter these divisive tactics.
This disinformation campaign is a concerning example of how malicious actors can leverage social media to sow discord and manipulate public opinion, especially around sensitive issues like refugee policies. I’m glad the authorities swiftly countered these false claims with clear, factual information.
You’re right, this highlights the need for vigilance against online manipulation tactics. Maintaining an informed, inclusive public discourse is crucial, especially during times of crisis and social upheaval. Kudos to the officials for their proactive, transparent response.