Readout from World Bank Group President David Malpass’s Meeting with Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski of Warsaw, Poland

WARSAW, April 12, 2022 - Today, World Bank Group President David Malpass met with Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski of Warsaw, Poland.

President Malpass commended Warsaw City authorities and the people of Warsaw for their generosity in welcoming Ukrainian refugees displaced by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. President Malpass and Mayor Trzaskowski discussed the situation in Warsaw - which is hosting over 300,000 refugees - and the crucial role of municipal governments in service provision, including housing, education, early child care, and healthcare.

President Malpass and Mayor Trzaskowski also spoke on the need for a strategy to coordinate support between the EU, national and the municipal governments. President Malpass emphasized the importance of data driven decisions in calibrating policy responses to the refugee crisis, as well as the importance of adaptability to rapidly changing circumstances.

President Malpass and Mayor Trzaskowski explored areas for direct cooperation, focusing on World Bank provision of analytical and advisory services, including sharing international experience from municipal responses to refugee crisis.

Following their meeting, President Malpass and Mayor Trzaskowski visited the Agrykola Refugee Center to hear directly from both refugees and staff about their immediate needs and long-term challenges.