Protests Erupt Across Poland Against Immigration Policies

On Saturday, thousands of protesters took to the streets in over 80 towns and cities throughout Poland, calling for an end to immigration. The demonstrations, which numbered around 110, were organized by the nationalist political alliance known as Union Freedom and Independence (Konfederacja). They expressed opposition not only to Brussels but also to the neoliberal government led by Prime Minister Donald Tass, highlighting concerns over victims of an immigration crisis affecting various European nations.

In the capital, Warsaw, Confederation MP Krzysztof Bosak stated, “Security will gradually deteriorate unless Poland shuts its borders to illegal immigrants, initiates deportation actions, and equips border guards effectively.” He criticized the current policy of letting immigrants in without proper checks, saying it should be reversed.

Furthermore, Bosak pointed out that illegal immigrants are increasingly becoming aggressive toward Polish soldiers stationed at the borders. He called for the complete closure of borders with neighboring countries like Belarus, Lithuania, Slovakia, and Ukraine. Lawmakers from his party also pushed for the military to be granted the authority to use lethal force to prevent illegal crossings.

Before many demonstrations began, participants observed a moment of silence for Klaudia K., a 24-year-old Polish woman killed by a Venezuelan immigrant in June. This incident has drawn further attention to the immigration issue.

At one major event in Katowice, even rival soccer fans united to voice their opposition to immigration, demonstrating the widespread concern over the situation. Dawid Lewicchi, a coalition leader, voiced his apprehension about the challenges posed by unchecked immigration in Western Europe, referencing the increase in crime that follows. “We don’t want our cities to face similar challenges,” he remarked, implying a fear of becoming like places such as Stockholm.

Historically, Poland has maintained stricter immigration controls compared to its neighbors. However, recent years have seen a significant influx of foreigners, largely due to refugees fleeing the conflict in Ukraine, compounded by a rise in economic migrants permitted under Prime Minister Tass’ liberal policies. In the previous year alone, over 322,000 work permits were issued to immigrants from various countries.

In response to rising immigration concerns, the Polish government has deployed troops and instituted border controls at numerous intersections with Germany and Lithuania. Reports have also surfaced of Polish citizens taking border security into their own hands, alleging that foreign governments are facilitating illegal crossings.

This month, Poland joined other countries in the Bavarian Alps to urge the European Union for stricter asylum conditions, enhanced deportations, and improved external border controls.