At the end of 2020 in Wrocław was created an independent institution – the Institute of Migrants' Rights (IPM). Its cofounders – Foundation Ukraine and Honorary Consulate of Ukraine in Wroclaw say that IPM will comprehensively address the needs of migrants as the first organization of such type in Poland.

Foreigners make up about 5 percent of the Polish population. According to unofficial data in Wroclaw lives more than 100 000 migrants. There are about 30 registered organizations supporting them through the integration and promotion of a multicultural society. Despite the convincing statistics, so far there has been no institution that would comprehensively take care of the rights and needs of such a large group of people.

Foreigners face problems related not only to the legalization of their stay in Poland but also seek information about the procedure of marriage and divorce, insurance, and education. Foreigners also buy real estate, set up their own business, and want to participate in social initiatives. They are interested in creating and running associations, foundations, or trade unions. According to the law, migrants have the right to do so.

The newly created institute aims to implement a wide range of activities that will help migrants to be a significant part of society and to be treated in this way by the host society.

"Our biggest goal is to recognize foreigners as one of the important social groups living in Poland. We strive to maximize the activation of this group of residents through education and assistance in creating their own social initiatives. On the other hand, we would like to point out that legal acts often do not take into account foreigners and their needs. The Institute of Migrants' Rights wants foreigners to be seen as one of the social groups with their own rights and interests," Bartłomiej Potocki, the head of the IPM, emphasized.

(WBJ)