Word: polander
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...consequence of the conflict is that we will have to get ready for a new era of confrontation between U.S. and Russia [Sept. 1]. It is clear that the inclusion of former Soviet states in NATO, the independence of Kosovo and the anti-missile shield to be installed in Poland have led to distrust on Russia's part. The plight of Russians in ex-Soviet nations, together with a more buoyant Russian economy and strong political support for President Vladimir Putin, makes easier for Russia to further its aim of enhancing its international standing by whatever means necessary. For these...
...couple of years ago, Maryla Smolicz's Polish deli in Swindon was besieged with new arrivals seeking the comforts of imported kielbasa and advice on setting up life in the southern English town. They came to Britain because their earnings would far exceed what they made in Poland. "Now, they're all going home," says Smolicz. "This week alone, two couples have stopped by to thank me and say goodbye...
...Financial considerations are now driving them home again. On May 1, 2004, the day of Poland's accession, a pound would buy more than 7 zloty, versus 4 today. In Poland, wages rose 7.7% last year, double their growth rate in the U.K.; and Poland's unemployment rate has dropped from about 14% to under 10% in two years. Newly arrived Poles, eager for jobs, were willing to work for low wages. The influx of Poles triggered tabloid scare stories about Polish laborers stealing jobs and soaking up social services. Now their departure has stirred doleful speculation about labor shortages...
...With the Polish economy growing at over 6%, there's a steady campaign to lure foreign workers home. Polish newspapers in Britain run ads from companies in Poland looking for returnee workers; builders are particularly in demand as the country pours money into infrastructure for the 2012 European Football Championship. Polish employers have trekked out to London job fairs looking for labor, while the city of Wroclaw even mounted its own campaign, sending officials to Britain to encourage Poles to return...
...just Poland's growing opportunities that are causing the shift. After the country's E.U. accession, the Polish media painted Britain as a paradise. "The Poles all came here expecting gold coming from heaven," says Smolicz. For many, the reality has been less sublime. Earlier this summer, a Polish couple in the English city of Lincoln who'd had trouble finding steady work committed suicide, leaving behind an 11-year-old daughter. The U.K.-based Polish Times followed up with a cover story on poverty among Polish migrants. "People who work abroad are perceived in Poland as very rich...