Poland Suspends Migrants’ Asylum Applications: What You Need to Know

Poland has put a pause on the right of migrants arriving from Belarus to seek asylum. Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced this change right after President Andrzej Duda signed a new law. This law allows authorities to halt asylum applications for up to 60 days if they believe there is a threat to national security.

Tusk assured that this suspension is a temporary measure aimed at keeping borders safe. Yet, this has raised concerns among human rights organizations like Human Rights Watch. They argue that this new approach violates Poland’s obligations under international law and could effectively close the border completely, especially given the allegations of abusive pushbacks by Polish forces.

The government claims the suspension will only affect individuals who might be a threat, such as large, organized groups attempting to cross the border. However, they will still allow exceptions for vulnerable groups, including unaccompanied minors, pregnant women, the elderly, and those facing serious risks if returned to their home countries—like citizens from Belarus.

Tusk has responded to critiques, emphasizing that this is about managing illegal crossings and not about denying the right to asylum across the board.

Migration waves from Belarus and Russia have surged since 2021, with Polish authorities deploying thousands of troops and border guards to manage the influx. They have also erected a tall steel fence along 186 kilometers of the border, which has seen many migrants stranded. Recent reports indicate that over a hundred people have died while trying to cross into Poland and other neighboring countries.

The situation has drawn significant concerns not just from rights groups but also from the EU. Countries on the eastern flank of the EU, along with the European Commission, have accused Belarus and Russia of using migration as a strategic tool to sow chaos in Europe.

In light of these events, public sentiment has become increasingly polarized. Many express sympathy for the migrants, seeing their struggles as a humanitarian crisis. A recent survey by the European Council on Foreign Relations found that nearly 60% of EU citizens believe in providing help to migrants, while a sizable portion fears the implications for national security and social stability.

As the situation evolves, it remains crucial to balance stringent border control measures with the ethical treatment of those seeking refuge and the obligations to uphold human rights.



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