Poland Plans Border Controls With Germany, Lithuania Amid Migrant Dispute

Poland has reinstated temporary border controls with Germany and Lithuania to address rising tensions over migration and alleged unauthorized migrant pushbacks by German police. The move, initiated by Prime Minister Donald Tusk, aims to reduce uncontrolled migrant flows and safeguard Poland's sovereignty while adhering to EU Schengen rules allowing short-term border checks during security risks. Poland rejected Germany's proposal for joint border patrols, with Polish officials insisting on maintaining independent border control, emphasizing national authority and security. The situation has been further complicated by the emergence of far-right vigilante groups, such as the 'Border Defence Movement' led by Robert Bąkiewicz, which conduct unauthorized border patrols to hinder illegal migration; these groups have been condemned by the Polish government and security experts for illegal activities, including impersonation of officers. Polish authorities have committed to prosecuting illegal actions by these vigilante groups, reaffirming that border security is the responsibility of official Polish services. The dispute highlights ongoing challenges within the EU regarding migrant management, cross-border cooperation, and the limits of open internal borders amid rising public and political pressure in Poland.