ABSTRACT

This chapter juxtaposes the anti-refugee and anti-migration norms, and nationalistic values promulgated by the Polish national government with local responses to the national agenda. It discusses local – city and civil society – support and initiatives advocating openness to migrants and refugees providing examples from Poznań, a city in western Poland. For instance, the December 2017 social campaign in Poznań – ‘Tolerance is not enough’ – has countered existing stereotypes and prejudices against refugees and migrants. Actions, such as happenings, displays, and media campaigns focus both on refugees on the move and in camps and the Polish society, challenging the state’s decisions and narratives. This chapter offers a more nuanced perspective on state and local dynamics, attitudes towards refugees, and chances of resettlement in Poland. It is based on media coverage, documents, and interviews with NGO activists.