A recent survey conducted by STEM has provided insights into the evolving public opinion regarding Ukrainian refugees in the Czech Republic. While support for their presence remains relatively stable, the survey has indicated a growing polarization of opinions within the population.

The survey revealed that approximately half of the population endorses the presence of Ukrainian refugees in the Czech Republic. In June, 56% of respondents supported their presence, but this figure declined to 51% in September. However, around 40% of respondents believe that Ukrainian refugees should be allowed to stay in the country even after the war comes to an end.

The perception of Ukrainian refugees varies among the Czech population, with 27% of individuals considering them a benefit to society, while 55% view them as a potential threat. Interestingly, supporters of the ruling coalition parties are more inclined to endorse the presence of refugees, with 80% expressing support, whereas those supporting opposition parties and non-parliamentary groups generally do not endorse their presence.

The survey also found that the majority of respondents (54%) reported that their attitude towards refugees had not changed, while 42% indicated a worsening of their stance. The Czech society overwhelmingly attributes responsibility for the conflict in Ukraine to Russia, with 65% of respondents sharing this view.

Furthermore, the survey highlighted that a significant proportion of respondents (73%) did not perceive any personal change in their situation due to the arrival of Ukrainian refugees, considering it either neutral or unaffected. In contrast, a quarter of respondents acknowledged a negative impact.

Of note, a substantial majority of respondents (78.8%) reported a deterioration in their attitude towards Ukrainian refugees over time, with only 1.4% indicating an improvement. The remaining 19.8% stated that their stance remained unchanged. The survey was completed by 3,495 readers.

According to STEM, more than half of those who strongly oppose the presence of Ukrainian refugees believe that their arrival has had a negative impact on their lives. The most frequently mentioned negative impacts pertain to the availability of places in kindergartens and schools, housing, and a perceived increase in criminality.

The majority of people reported their encounters with refugees as neutral (38%), with 23% reporting predominantly positive experiences and 18% expressing negative encounters. Approximately one-fifth of respondents (21%) indicated that they have had no personal experience with refugees.

This survey, conducted in June and September, involved over 1,000 respondents in each round, providing valuable insights into the evolving public opinion and attitudes towards Ukrainian refugees in the Czech Republic.

Article by Prague Forum