Paper short abstract:

In Spring 2022, the Polish-Ukrainian border witnessed the largest displacement crisis in Europe since World War II. This paper explores the intricate dynamics of the resulting humanitarian ecosystem (volunteers, border guards, paid workers) and its transformative impact on the border's role.

Paper long abstract:

In the spring of 2022, the Polish-Ukrainian border witnessed an immense displacement crisis in Europe, as daily influxes of up to 50,000 Ukrainian refugees transformed the Polish side into a 24/7 tent camp predominantly overseen by international volunteers. This paper explores the intricate dynamics of the resulting emergence of the global humanitarian ecosystem, encompassing volunteers, Polish border guards, and paid workers. It scrutinizes the transformative effects on the transformative importance of the border, while also considering the profound implications for the future paths of the displaced Ukrainians.

Refugees were transported from the physical border to the two primary humanitarian aid hubs: a repurposed Tesco supermarket functioning as a shelter and the Przemysl train station. These locations not only became pivotal in migratory decision-making but also served as extensions of the border itself, with volunteers providing crucial psychological support and informational assistance. Daily departures of free buses from these sites linked refugees to diverse European destinations. The Tesco supermarket, uniquely configured with desks manned by volunteers representing various European countries, metamorphosed into a tangible "supermarket of opportunities," delivering vital information on prospects in each nation.

Upon crossing the physical border, displaced Ukrainians encountered a deliberately crafted humanitarian infrastructure tailored to navigate uncertainty, effectively transforming the border crossing into a life-changing experience. The emergent "supermarket of opportunities" demanded immediate decisions, magnifying the border's significance as a pivotal juncture in the journeys of these displaced individuals.