Will Poland close the borders? Kosiniak-Kamish does not exclude control in consequence to the migration crisis

In the face of an expanding migration crisis in Europe, Poland is considering introducing controls at its borders. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz did not regulation out specified a scenario, referring to Germany's decision to extend the checks at their borders for another six months. Will Poland follow in their footsteps? And what are the consequences of specified a movement?

Germany extends border controls – consequence to illegal migration

In mid-February, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced that the government extended controls at all state borders. This decision is intended to be a firm expression in the fight against illegal migration. Scholz stressed that the controls to date led to a return of 47 000 people at the border. However, he did not uncover where the migrants were yet sent.

– It is simply a clear signal that Germany does not intend to tolerate the uncontrolled influx of migrants, says experts.

Poland in the heat of criticism – are border controls necessary?

Poland, as a country neighbouring Germany, feels the effects of German decisions. Controls at the German border make gigantic traffic jams, paralyzing traffic. In Słubice (Lubuskie) the movement increased more than twice, as the local authorities described as ‘real armagedon and pre-vailing condition’.

– This is not only a logistical problem, but besides a serious safety challenge," said Deputy Mayor Słubic Tomasz Stefański in an interview with RMF FM.

In addition, the media reports cases of return of illegal migrants by German services to Poland. This raises questions about the effectiveness of the Polish migration policy and the request to introduce their own border controls.

Władysław Kosiniak-Kamish: “If necessary, yes”

The national defence minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz did not regulation out that Poland could take akin steps as Germany.

– I realize the starting point for Germany was the statement: you do not defender your territory, you have a leaky external border, and we have a seal. We will not accept migrants, we will not let our land, our law," said Kosiniak-Kamish.

The Minister besides pointed out that he is simply a supporter of the ‘hard line’ on migration and does not agree with the alleged ‘hard line’. The Migration Pact and the actions of Germany, which consist in sending migrants to Poland.

– Of course, it was Germany that introduced the checks, de facto did something that was incompatible with European Union law in the long term, due to the fact that it could be temporarily suspended or introduced," he added.

What about the Polish border?

The decision to introduce border controls in Poland is not yet foregone, but it seems more and more likely. Deputy Prime Minister Kosiniak-Kamysz stressed that if necessary, Poland will not hesitate to take appropriate steps.

– If necessary, yes," said the head of the MON.

However, the introduction of border controls could have serious consequences not only for tourism and trade but besides for relations with the European Union. Is Poland ready for specified challenges?

Summary

The migration crisis in Europe poses hard challenges for Poland. Germany's decision to extend border controls forces our country to consider its own strategy. Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz does not regulation out that Poland will follow in the footsteps of its neighbours, but emphasizes that all step must be considered and consistent with the Polish state ration.