Large-Scale Anti-Immigration Protests in Poland: A New Wave of Tension Amid Border Closures
Last Saturday, dozens of cities across Poland witnessed massive demonstrations and marches organized by far-right groups, aimed at protesting the country’s immigration policies. Over a hundred public actions took place nationwide, reflecting growing tensions and deepening societal polarization. Slogans such as “Stop Immigration” and “Protect the Polish Nation” became the rallying cries of this wave of protests. Activists demanded stricter measures to close borders with countries like Belarus, Ukraine, Lithuania, and Slovakia, citing the need to combat illegal migration. It is noteworthy that these protests coincided with Poland’s implementation of intensified border controls with Germany and Lithuania, which came into effect on July 7. There are 52 control points on the Polish-German border and 13 on the Polish-Lithuanian border. Politically, the situation further intensified following the May presidential elections, where ultra-right candidates Sławomir Mentzen and Grzegorz Braun secured third and fourth places, respectively, signaling rising support for hardline policies on migration and security. Poland also agreed with several EU countries on strategic goals to tighten asylum regulations, provoking mixed reactions from governing bodies and civil society. In response to an increase in asylum applications due to the ongoing crisis at the Belarusian border since 2021, Poland adopted laws temporarily restricting refugee rights for those crossing from Belarus. This move is widely viewed as part of Belarusian regime’s destabilization tactics targeting the EU. Meanwhile, counter-demonstrations took place in cities such as Warsaw, Katowice, and Olsztyn, where supporters of open borders and refugee rights held banners reading “Embrace Refugees — Remove Fascists,” “Take Action, Democracy,” and “Defend the Right to Asylum.” The Ministry of Interior announced that in 2024, the number of permits for international protection issued to foreigners decreased by 40% compared to 2021, thanks to improved procedures and more effective border management. Since June 2024, more restrictive immigration rules have made it harder for foreigners to access higher education, legal employment, and visas, purportedly to enhance security and control. These policy changes have sparked debate across Polish society, showcasing the ongoing tension between national security concerns and human rights.