In a bid to maintain security and ensure the prevention of illegal migration through its border with Slovakia, Poland has announced the extension of temporary border controls for an additional 20 days, taking the measure until November 2. The decision was officially confirmed by Poland’s Interior Minister, Mariusz Kaminski, in a recent announcement on Poland’s Radio One.
Extending Border Controls: Poland’s Commitment to Secure the Schengen Area
This extension comes after the initial period of temporary controls, which had been implemented on the Poland-Slovakia border, was set to expire. Mariusz Kaminski emphasized the importance of these measures in maintaining border security, stating that “there will be no illegal migration routes through Poland.”
The extension of these controls is conducted in accordance with the Schengen Code, a set of rules governing border control within the Schengen Area, of which Poland is part.
Kaminski also noted that the decision to extend these temporary controls would be communicated to the European Commission as Poland enters the second stage of this measure. The move has been attributed to the effectiveness of the controls, which have yielded clear results in curbing illegal migration.
Border Crossings and Exemptions in the Slovakia-Poland Border Region
Slovakia shares a border with Poland that is dotted with eight road and three rail crossings, along with 11 pedestrian crossings. The extension of border controls applies primarily to these established crossing points, as it aims to deter illegal migrants from exploiting these routes.
However, it’s important to note that mountain trails in the Tatra Mountains, a region of outstanding natural beauty shared by both Poland and Slovakia, remain exempt from these border controls. This exemption reflects the unique geographical and environmental considerations associated with such areas.
Safeguarding Europe’s Borders: Poland’s Commitment to Controlling the Balkan Route
The core purpose of implementing these border controls is to prevent illegal migrants from using the so-called Balkan route to enter Europe. Over the years, this route has become a common path for migrants seeking entry into the European Union, and Poland’s commitment to this extension underscores its dedication to safeguarding the EU’s external borders.