Poland has temporarily halted the right of migrants entering the country from Belarus to apply for asylum. The controversial law, signed by President Andrzej Duda, has drawn strong criticism from human rights groups.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasized the urgency of implementing the new legislation, stating that it would be enforced “without a moment’s delay.” Duda, who previously voiced concerns about its impact on Belarusian dissidents, defended the decision, saying it was necessary to “strengthen the security of our borders and the security of Poles.”
Under this new law, Polish authorities can suspend the right to asylum for 60 days at a time. Critics argue that this measure violates international and European asylum laws. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) warned in February that the law contradicts global and EU regulations. Human Rights Watch also urged the European Union to take legal action if the policy is enforced, calling it a direct violation of Poland’s commitments.
Despite opposition, the European Commission acknowledged Poland’s security concerns, stating that migration could be “weaponized” by Russia and Belarus. The Commission had previously outlined conditions under which fundamental rights could be temporarily suspended if deemed necessary for national security. A spokesperson noted that threats linked to migration posed risks to Poland’s sovereignty and EU stability.
Tusk insists that the law is essential to curb migration from Belarus, arguing that Moscow and Minsk are deliberately encouraging crossings to destabilize Europe. The legislation includes exemptions for minors, pregnant women, individuals needing medical care, and those at risk of harm if deported. Families with minors are also allowed to apply for asylum under a last-minute amendment.
Poland’s 400-kilometre border with Belarus has been a hotspot for migration, with thousands attempting to cross through dense forests, often in freezing temperatures. To combat illegal crossings, Poland has spent billions fortifying the border, installing a 5.5-metre steel wall with barbed wire and a 206-kilometre electronic surveillance system.
Human rights groups report that hundreds of migrants have died along the border since 2021, with thousands allegedly subjected to illegal pushbacks by Polish authorities. While NGOs continue to oppose the law, Tusk maintains that the legislation targets illegal migration orchestrated by foreign powers and does not infringe on migrants’ rights in general.