On the initiative of Monika Navickienë, Minister of Labour and Social Welfare of the Republic of Lithuania, a video conference was held with the participation of the Lithuanian, Polish and Latvian Ministers and representatives of the Ministry of Estonia in charge of labour and social security. It was dedicated to aid provided by these countries to Ukraine and its citizens and also to coordination of this aid.

Minister Maląg talked about the involvement of Poland. Support is provided in two ways: humanitarian aid, coordinated by the Chancellery of the Prime Minister, sent to Ukraine and to refugees arriving in our country, and long-term aid under the responsibility of the Ministry of Family and Social Policy.

Social security for refugees

- We have taken intense measures to secure the situation of Ukrainian citizens coming to us, most of whom are women with small children – said Minister Maląg. – We are aiming at covering them with full social security.

The Secretary of State, Stanisław Szwed, who attended the meeting, pointed out that some persons coming to our country go to their families or friends, but some of them have no such opportunities.

– First of all, we provide accommodation and food to them, then we offer aid programmes – explained Deputy Minister Szwed. 

We are opening the labour market

Poland has already introduced simplified forms of crossing the border for refugees. Soon, a legal stay in our country will mean unrestricted access to the labour market. – We are in constant contact with employers who declare that the offers are adapted to the needs resulting from the majority of women seeking employment – explained Deputy Minister Szwed.

Joint declaration

The Ministers declared their constant contact, exchange of information and taking up cooperation to ensure the best aid. Minister Marlena Maląg stressed the importance of cooperation with other countries in our region, including applying for funds from the European Union. The Ministers also approved the signing of a joint declaration on cooperation when providing aid to Ukrainians. – I invite you to Warsaw to sign this document – said Minister Maląg. – For the sake of Ukraine and peace all over the world.