EU Limits Asylum Rights Amid Migration Concerns

The European Commission has approved temporary measures allowing member states bordering Russia and Belarus to restrict asylum rights in response to perceived threats from these countries, which are accused of weaponizing migration. The Commission stated that such restrictions can be implemented under stringent conditions when faced with a 'hybrid threat' to national security. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has proposed suspending asylum applications for up to 60 days as Poland experiences a significant increase in migrant crossings, with a reported 66 percent rise this year. Reports indicate that Belarus is facilitating crossings by providing migrants with tools and that most of those crossing hold Russian visas, suggesting complicity from Russia. In light of these developments, the EU is allocating €170 million to bolster border security in the affected regions. Human rights groups have criticized these measures, raising concerns about the implications for asylum seekers and international law.