Protests Erupt in Poland Against Immigration Policies

Thousands gathered on Saturday to voice their opposition to illegal immigration and Prime Minister Donald Tass’ pro-European stance, just a week ahead of the EU members’ presidential election.

The demonstrations, organized by nationalist groups, saw participants from across Poland waving red and white flags and chanting slogans like “Immigrants don’t belong here.”

Immigration remains a pivotal topic in Central Europe with the upcoming May 18 election drawing closer.

Poland currently hosts about 1 million refugees from the ongoing war in Ukraine, blaming Russia and Belarus for orchestrating the immigration influx into the European Union.

During the protest, demonstrators marched towards the government headquarters in central Warsaw, calling out the name of nationalist presidential candidate Karol Nowrocky.

Nowrocky, a 42-year-old supporter of US President Donald Trump, is backed by right-wing opposition parties as well as the ruling Law and Justice party and outgoing President Andrzej Duda.

He finished second in the presidential elections, garnering roughly 25% support.

Meanwhile, the frontrunner, Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski, who advocates for the European Union, has the backing of the Civic Platform and polls at about 32%.

“Poland must safeguard itself against illegal immigrants. They have their own countries and should remain there,” stated 66-year-old farmer Bogslow Ukmanowicz.