Poland's Prime Minister announced on Saturday a new migration policy that includes the temporary suspension of the right to asylum in response to alleged abuse by neighboring Belarus and Russia. The decision aims to regain full control over the country's borders, with plans to present the strategy at an upcoming Cabinet meeting.
The move comes as Poland grapples with migration challenges along its border with Belarus, where authorities have accused Belarus and Russia of orchestrating the influx of migrants from the Middle East and Africa to create instability in the West.
The Prime Minister emphasized the misuse of the right to asylum by various actors, including Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, Russian President Vladimir Putin, as well as human smugglers and traffickers. He highlighted the need to align the application of asylum rights with their intended purpose.
In addition to the suspension of the right to asylum, Poland also plans to tighten visa regulations, enhancing the vetting process for applicants. This decision follows an investigation into a cash-for-visas scandal that occurred under the previous government.
The Prime Minister expressed the intention to seek recognition of the asylum policy decision from the European Union, underscoring the importance of addressing migration issues in collaboration with regional partners.
For more updates on migration-related developments, visit AP's coverage of migration issues.
