Poland: Far-right 'Border Defenders' and Immigration

Amid escalating tensions on the Poland-Germany border, far-right militias are taking action against immigration, with systemic tolerance.

Nearly 20 months after taking power, Donald Tusk's pro-European coalition faces political challenges. Many announcements stumble on the veto of outgoing President Andrzej Duda, while further difficulties are expected with the new President Karol Nawrocki.

The government is leaning to the right, causing tremors in the four-party coalition. Warsaw risks political 'paralysis' and is losing the opportunity to upgrade its role in the EU.

A strong anti-immigration movement is developing, even targeting Ukrainian refugees. Far-right militias, such as the 'Citizen Patrols', are active on the border, arresting foreigners.

Since July 7, with the imposition of controls on the borders with Germany and Lithuania, militias have been organizing patrols, claiming to cover state 'gaps'. These include the 'National Guard' and the 'Patriots Against the Islamization of Europe'.

The 'Border Defense Movement-ROG', linked to ultranationalist networks, was founded by Robert Bakiewicz, who was pardoned by President Duda.

While prosecutors are investigating incidents of vigilantism, the militia's action is supported by PiS and the far right. Duda expressed gratitude to ROG, while Nawrocki made positive comments.

The Tusk government has adopted tough measures on immigration and is considering extending border controls.