Hoping to restore some normalcy after fleeing the war in Ukraine, thousands of refugees wait in long lines in the Polish capital of Warsaw to get identification cards that will allow them to get on with their lives — at least for now.
Refugees started lining up outside Warsaw’s National Stadium overnight to get the coveted PESEL identity cards that will allow them to work, live, go to school, and get medical care or social benefits for the next 18 months. Still, by mid-morning, many were told to come back another day. The demand was too high even though Polish authorities had simplified the process.
“We are looking for a job now,” says 30-year-old Kateryna Lohvyn, who was standing in the line with her mother, adding that it took a bit of time to recover from the shock of the Russian invasion.
“We don’t yet know [what to do],” she adds. “But we are thankful to the Poles. They fantastically welcome us.”
Maryna Liashuk says the warm welcome from Poland has made her feel at home already. If the situation worsens, Liashuk says she would like to stay permanently in Poland with her family.
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From the Liveblog of
Saturday, March 19, 2022
