Controversy Around ‘Study in Lublin’ Sparks Local Petition

31 May 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

A petition demands the dismissal of a Lublin official over the Study in Lublin program, raising questions about migration and local consultation.

Lead: A petition addressed to Lublin mayor Krzysztof Żuk demands the removal of an official over the Study in Lublin program. The petitioners claim the initiative shifted from educational outreach to a migration-focused project.

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What the petition says about Study in Lublin

Petitioners ask the mayor to dismiss Wiktoria Herun from her post at the city hall. Moreover, they claim her remarks in an UMCS podcast reveal a long-term focus on recruiting students from Africa and Asia. Consequently, they argue that some students arrive with family members. Therefore, the authors say this changes the program’s purpose.

Rafał Mekler, regional head of Ruch Narodowy, coordinates the action. In addition, the petition comes from Ruch Narodowy aligned with Konfederacja. However, the online petition lists roughly 340 signatures so far. The document demands three steps. First, immediate dismissal of Herun. Second, suspension or major reform of the program until public consultations occur. Third, a rule limiting key municipal posts to Polish citizens only.

Local reactions and official clarifications

City officials quickly pushed back. They say the municipality does not fund foreign students’ stays. Moreover, they insist the city does not grant housing or special benefits to those students. In addition, universities run recruitment processes themselves. Therefore, the town hall argues the claims misrepresent how the program works.

Academic and social groups also reacted. They warn that the petition’s narrative could increase hostility toward international students. Consequently, some representatives fear the debate will simplify the complex issues tied to internationalisation. However, supporters of the program say foreign students bring academic, economic, and promotional benefits. For example, they point to tuition income, local rents, and increased cultural exchange.

Why this matters to expats and residents

The debate connects to broader topics on migration policy and local decision-making. Moreover, it raises questions about how cities manage growth. In addition, it touches on consultation practices and democratic legitimacy. Therefore, residents ask whether the city should hold referenda or public consultations on such matters.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: If you plan to study or live in Poland, register properly. Apply for a PESEL number if you stay long term (PESEL = national ID number). Also check health coverage rules before you need care; Poland uses ZUS for social insurance and NFZ for public health benefits. Finally, know that universities usually handle recruitment and visas, while city offices manage registration and local permits.

Experts say the dispute may spark a national debate. Consequently, it could influence how other cities design international student strategies. Moreover, parties may push for tighter rules on local appointments. However, stakeholders call for evidence-based discussion rather than political slogans.

For expats, the immediate impact may be modest. In addition, universities will likely continue standard recruitment. Nevertheless, the conversation could affect local attitudes and services. Therefore, watch for proposed policy changes at the municipal level.

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