Poland Suspends Asylum Rights Amid Border Crisis with Belarus

The Polish government has announced a suspension of asylum rights as a response to the ongoing border crisis with Belarus. Prime Minister Donald Tusk revealed on social media that a decree will be passed on Wednesday to formalize this action. This decision follows President Andrzej Duda's signing of a controversial law aimed at restricting asylum applications.

Duda stated that the law was necessary to enhance the security of Poland's borders. The law permits the government to temporarily limit asylum rights during emergencies, particularly at the eastern border with Belarus, where thousands of migrants are reportedly attempting to cross with the assistance of Belarusian authorities.

In mid-March, the Polish Senate approved the legislation, which allows for a 60-day period during which only foreigners who have legally entered Poland can apply for asylum. If the parliament consents, this measure can be extended.

Poland's eastern border has become increasingly tense, with reports of violent encounters between Polish border guards and migrants attempting illegal crossings. The European Union has accused Russia and Belarus of weaponizing migration to destabilize the region.

In December, the European Commission acknowledged that member states bordering Russia and Belarus could restrict asylum rights in response to the situation. Poland has been particularly vocal about the need for such measures due to a significant rise in migrant numbers.

In a recent statement, Tusk warned of a 'hybrid war' being waged by Russia and its allies, using migrants as a means to undermine the European Union's stability.

The decision to suspend asylum rights has drawn sharp criticism from human rights organizations. Human Rights Watch urged the Polish parliament to reject the proposal, arguing that it contravenes international and EU obligations regarding asylum seekers. Amnesty International condemned the plans as unlawful.

As Poland implements these measures, discussions regarding migration policies continue in Germany, where political parties are at an impasse. A recent exploratory paper highlighted the need for coordination with European neighbors concerning the return of asylum seekers. However, differing approaches between parties have led to a stalemate.

Amidst these developments, the situation at the Polish-Belarusian border remains precarious, with ongoing reports of migrants facing violence and intimidation.