Ukrainian Adolescent War Migrants in the Polish Educational Environment: Experiences and Perspectives
[ 1 ] Wydział Humanistyczny, Akademia im. Jakuba z Paradyża | [ P ] pracownik
2025
artykuł naukowy
angielski
- Ukrainian war migrants
- adolescents
- Polish educational environment
- social adaptation
EN The Russian invasion of Ukraine has triggered one of the largest refugee crises in Europe, with Poland emerging as a key destination for displaced Ukrainians. Among them, adolescents constitute a highly vulnerable group navigating the dual challenges of forced migration and developmental transitions. This study explores the social, psychological, and educational experiences of Ukrainian adolescent war migrants in Poland, with particular attention to their adaptation, identity negotiation, and future aspirations. Drawing on questionnaire data from 62 adolescents aged 12-17, the research highlights both barriers and sources of resilience. Findings reveal that while most respondents report positive experiences in Polish schools, including strong support from teachers and a desire to build friendships with Polish peers, language barriers, homesickness, and feelings of exclusion persist, especially among those recently arrived. Many adolescents rely on Ukrainian peer networks for social support, yet also express aspirations for deeper integration and long-term settlement in Poland. The study underscores the importance of structured educational support, social inclusion initiatives, and mental health resources to foster resilience and positive developmental trajectories. By amplifying the voices of young migrants, the research contributes to broader debates on migration, integration, and youth resilience, offering insights for policymakers and educators seeking to address the needs and potential of adolescent war migrants in contemporary Europe
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