Poland approves law suspending asylum claims amid hybrid war concerns

(MENAFN) Polish President Andrzej Duda has signed into law legislation that grants the government the power to temporarily suspend asylum claims for individuals entering Poland. Duda characterized this move as a response to the "migration instrumentalization" allegedly orchestrated by Belarus, a tactic he described as part of a broader "hybrid war" waged by Belarus and Russia, according to Polish media outlets.

The newly enacted law empowers Poland's Interior Ministry to impose temporary restrictions on the right to seek international protection. This authority is contingent upon the ministry's assessment that "instrumentalization of migration" is taking place, that it "constitutes a serious and real threat to security," and that restricting asylum rights is perceived vital to mitigate that risk.

However, the law includes provisions that safeguard certain vulnerable groups. Minors, pregnant women, individuals requiring specialized healthcare, and families will retain their right to claim asylum. The suspension of asylum rights is initially set for a maximum of 60 days, with the possibility of extensions subject to parliamentary approval. The legislation, which garnered support from both the ruling coalition and opposition lawmakers, was approved by parliament in February.

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