Since 27 March 2025, the right to apply for global protection by foreigners on the Polish-Belarusian border has been suspended.
Exceptions are the alleged susceptible groups as defined in the Act – including unaccompanied minors, persons with disabilities, pregnant women and people with serious wellness status. The suspension decision shall be provisional and shall apply for 60 days, with the anticipation of extension with the consent of the Polish Sejm.
Reasons for introducing suspension
The government explains this step with the request to guarantee national safety and control of the border situation. For months there has been migration force from Belarus, supported by hybrid actions and inspired by the government of Alexander Lukashenka. Attempts to cross the border illegally are frequently organised, and groups of aggressive foreigners are involved, which poses a real threat to the safety of officers and local communities.
The suspension of the right to apply for global protection is 1 of the elements of a wider strategy for securing the border. another activities include:
- extension of the physical barrier,
- full monitoring of the border,
- equipment for border guards and soldiers,
- creation of a buffer zone,
- information actions aimed at possible migrants,
- diplomatic initiatives at EU and neighbouring countries level.
Controversy around Decision
Although the government emphasises that the decision is protective and in line with the state interest, criticisms are emerging – both from NGOs and from parts of the legal environment. The allegations relate mainly to the anticipation of violating global law and the Geneva Convention, which guarantees the right to search asylum from any individual in the territory of the country concerned.
Critics besides point out that suspension does not solve the problem at source, but can only lead to escalation of tensions and an increase in illegal transitions to more dangerous places.
What's next?
The situation on the Polish-Belarusian border is inactive unstable. If migratory pressures proceed or increase, a suspension is expected to be extended, as well as further legislative and operational action. At the same time, the government declares its readiness to engage in a dialog with global partners and the European Union on a politically inspired consequence to the migration crisis.
The decision to suspend the right to apply for global protection is simply a strong political signal – Poland wants to show that it will not be a passive observer of destabilisation on its east border. What will be the impact of this movement, both humanitarian and political, in the coming weeks.
