Selected Aspects of Social Security of Podlaskie Voivodeship Residents from the Perspective of Migration
Purpose: The article analyzes the impact of migration on the social security of residents in the Podlaskie Voivodeship. The research aims to explore both the objective and subjective dimensions of social security, with a particular focus on how media coverage and political discourse shape public perceptions of migration-related risks. Design/Methodology/Approach: The research is designed as a mixed-methods study to provide both a broad quantitative overview of residents’ perceptions and detailed qualitative insights from key stakeholders. The study employed a survey distributed to residents of the Podlaskie Voivodeship to assess their perceptions of social security in the context of migration with in-depth interviews conducted with local authorities, law enforcement officers, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to gain an understanding of the objective challenges posed by migration and how these are addressed. Findings: Migration, both legal and illegal, has a significant impact on the social security and cohesion of residents in the Podlaskie Voivodeship. While migration introduces diversity and potential economic opportunities, it also heightens concerns over social integration and public safety, particularly in border areas directly affected by migratory flows. The influx of migrants places additional strain on local infrastructure and public services, particularly in sectors such as healthcare, education, and housing. The study found that residents in the region often perceive migrants as a potential security threat, with concerns over increased crime and social instability. These perceptions, however, are not always supported by empirical evidence, indicating that fear of migration may be more tied to social and media narratives than actual security incidents. Despite security concerns, migration also brings potential economic benefits, particularly by filling labor market gaps in industries facing shortages of workers. The findings suggest that, with better integration policies, migrants could contribute positively to the local economy and community life. The research underscores the importance of balanced migration policies that address both security and integration. Local authorities are encouraged to foster community engagement and cross-cultural dialogue to reduce tensions, and invest in infrastructure to better support both local residents and migrant populations. Practical Implications: The findings of this article offer several practical implications for policymakers, local authorities, and regional security agencies in the Podlaskie Voivodeship and similar border regions. Firstly, the research highlights the need for comprehensive migration policies that address both security concerns and the socio-economic integration of migrants. Local governments should prioritize improving infrastructure and public services to accommodate increased migration flows, particularly in areas where demand for housing, healthcare, and education services is rising. Additionally, the study underscores the importance of fostering community cohesion through targeted programs that reduce tensions between local residents and migrant populations. Authorities could implement community engagement initiatives that promote cultural understanding and social integration, which can mitigate public fears about crime and social instability. Originality/Value: This article offers a unique contribution to the understanding of social security and migration by focusing on the specific context of the Podlaskie Voivodeship, a border region in Poland that has experienced both legal and illegal migration flows