The Polish border with Belarus has become a scene of conflict as law enforcement clashes with migrants attempting to travel eastward. Germany’s decision to impose temporary border checks has further exacerbated the situation, putting pressure on Poland. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has proposed temporarily suspending the right to apply for asylum in his country, which has been met with criticism from NGOs in Poland and abroad. The plan is part of a broader strategy to address the crisis on Poland’s border with Belarus, where thousands of people have been attempting to cross through thick forests in harsh conditions. The strategy also includes measures such as limiting visa applications, making it harder to obtain a Polish passport, and assisting migrants in integrating into Polish society. The European Commission has warned that the suspension of asylum applications could be unlawful.
NGOs argue that the proposal would not effectively address the problems along the border, where reports of deaths and brutal pushbacks have emerged. Many migrants attempting to cross the Polish-Belarusian border never even begin the asylum application procedure. Government measures granting more power to border guards have raised concerns about potential abuses. Prime Minister Tusk has cited a loss of control over illegal migration as a reason for the proposed suspension of asylum rights. However, data shows that the number of successful asylum applications at the border has been relatively low. There are fears that tightening measures could drive migrants to attempt more dangerous crossings or fall victim to human traffickers.
Amnesty International has warned that Tusk’s proposal could endanger the rights of migrants who may have been subjected to violence or trafficking on their journey to the EU. The government has assured that legitimate asylum claims would still be treated favorably and could result in temporary stays on humanitarian grounds. However, details on the implementation of this promise have not been provided. Tusk has criticized other countries for strengthening their borders, suggesting that such measures create obstacles for legitimate travelers and do not effectively address irregular migration flows. Migration issues are expected to be a prominent topic at an upcoming summit of European leaders in Brussels, with Italy’s agreement to send migrants to offshore processing centers in Albania drawing attention from other governments.
NGOs working at the border warn that tightening measures could make the crossing more dangerous and drive migrants into the hands of human traffickers. The Council of Europe’s Group of Experts on Action Against Human Trafficking has highlighted the risks faced by migrants who remain at the border for extended periods. Germany’s decision to introduce temporary border checks has sparked concerns about the impact on legitimate travelers and the effectiveness in addressing irregular migration. The proposal by Prime Minister Tusk to temporarily suspend asylum applications has raised questions about its legality and potential consequences. The European Commission has expressed concerns about the proposal, emphasizing the need to protect the rights of asylum seekers. As the situation at the Polish-Belarusian border continues to unfold, the debate over how to manage migration in Europe remains complex and challenging.
