The Polish government’s decision to temporarily suspend the right to asylum due to alleged abuse by neighbouring countries Belarus and Russia has sparked concerns from human and civil rights groups. Since 2021, Poland has been grappling with migration pressures on its border with Belarus, which is also an external border of the European Union. Accusations have been made against Belarus and Russia for orchestrating the mass transfer of migrants from the Middle East and Africa to the border in an attempt to destabilize the West, part of what Poland sees as a hybrid war waged by Moscow against the West amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Migrants who apply for asylum in Poland often move on to other EU countries before their requests are processed, leading to concerns within the EU about irregular migration. Germany, in response to security fears and increasing extremist attacks, has recently tightened border controls. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk criticised Germany’s actions, calling them “unacceptable.” Tusk’s plan to suspend the right for migrants to seek asylum was revealed at a Civic Coalition convention and will be presented at a Cabinet meeting.
In an open letter to Tusk, numerous non-governmental organisations emphasised the importance of upholding the right to asylum as guaranteed by international conventions, such as the Geneva Convention on the Status of Refugees and the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights. They urged Tusk to respect fundamental rights and freedoms, stating that these principles had provided shelter to thousands of Poles during times of totalitarianism.
Amnesty International and 45 other organisations representing humanitarian, legal, and civic causes signed the letter. Tusk defended his decision by citing Finland’s similar suspension of accepting asylum applications due to migration pressures on its border with Russia. Despite acknowledging the challenges posed by Belarus and Russia, a spokesperson for the European Commission highlighted the legal obligation of EU member states to allow individuals to apply for international protection.
The European Commission pledged to support member states in responding to hybrid attacks by ensuring necessary tools are in place. As concerns grow over the situation, all eyes are on Poland as debates surrounding asylum rights continue to spark reactions from civil society and governmental bodies alike.