Poland’s Minister of European Affairs, Szymon Szynkowski vel Sęk, has raised concerns about the European Union’s reluctance to address significant issues facing the bloc. His remarks came in response to President Ursula von der Leyen’s recent State of the European Union speech delivered at the European Parliament in Strasbourg.
During her speech, President von der Leyen emphasized the need for “deepening integration” within the EU and expanding the bloc’s influence on the global stage. She particularly highlighted the importance of addressing migration challenges through diligent work with key partners and maintaining unity within the European Union.
President von der Leyen stated, “When we took office, there seemed to be no possible compromise on migration in sight. But with the Migration Pact, we are striking a new balance. Between protecting borders and protecting people. Between sovereignty and solidarity. Between security and humanity.”
However, the Polish government has emerged as a vocal opponent of the Migration Pact, which proposes mandatory quotas for member countries to accommodate migrants. They plan to put this issue to a referendum on October 15, coinciding with the general election.
Reacting to President von der Leyen’s speech, Minister Szymon Szynkowski vel Sęk expressed his conviction that European leaders and institutions are reluctant to acknowledge the pressing problems facing the EU. He pointed out that migration issues are a substantial concern for many Western EU nations today, attributing them to past mistakes made by governments and European institutions.
Minister Szynkowski vel Sęk clarified that Poland’s stance on migration differs from the opposition’s portrayal, emphasizing that the country has been hosting numerous refugees from Ukraine and does not require additional undocumented immigrants. However, he made a distinction, suggesting that Poland welcomes seasonal workers, citing their necessity for companies and the country’s low unemployment rate.
In addressing these concerns, Minister Szynkowski vel Sęk accused the opposition of exploiting the migration issue for electoral gains by exaggerating its magnitude within Poland. He argued that the foreign workers in question were essential to meet the country’s labor demands due to its record-low unemployment rate.