Poland today reimplemented border controls with Germany and Lithuania, following similar measures taken by Germany earlier, with the stated aim of preventing asylum seekers from entering.
Tusk’s Warning and Right-Wing Pressure
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, whose government recently survived a no-confidence vote, had announced these restrictions last week. Pressure mounted on his administration after far-right groups in Poland accused Germany of transporting migrants into Polish territory after their arrival in Western Europe.
The controls, which began Sunday night, will initially last for 30 days but can be extended if necessary, according to Poland’s Ministry of Interior. “Illegal migration is simply a crime,” Polish Interior Minister Tomasz Siemoniak said during a press conference.
Extensive Control Points and Lithuanian Preparedness
The 104-kilometer border with Lithuania will have controls at 13 crossing points, while the 467-kilometer border with Germany will see checks at 52 points. Lithuanian authorities stated today that they are prepared for potential traffic blockages at the Polish border.
“If increased traffic occurs, we will start managing movement… to minimize disruptions and make checks as quick as possible,” said Antanas Montvydas, Deputy Head of Lithuania’s State Border Guard Service, to Lithuanian radio.
German Coordination and Schengen Implications
Upon taking office in May, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who made stricter migration policy a cornerstone of his election campaign, ordered an increased police presence at the border and stated that some asylum seekers would be denied entry into Germany. Last week, Merz confirmed close cooperation with Poland to ensure Germany’s border controls cause minimal problems and delays.
“Border protection against irregular migration is an interest that Germany has, Poland has, and our European neighbors share with us,” said Stefan Kornelius, Merz’s spokesperson, today. “We do not want permanent border controls,” he added.
The European Union has a visa-free travel area, known as Schengen, which allows citizens of most member countries to travel freely across borders. Switzerland is also part of the Schengen area, although it is not an EU member. According to the EU, member states are permitted to temporarily reinstate border controls in the event of a serious threat, such as to internal security. By regulation, border controls should be applied as a last resort in exceptional situations and must be limited in time.
