Why Did Poland Reinstate Checkpoints on Its Border with Germany and Lithuania?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Poland's recent decision to reinstate border checkpoints with Germany and Lithuania aims to tackle illegal migration while enhancing national security. This 30-day measure involves random inspections of vehicles, encouraging cooperation among citizens and local governments. Discover how this impacts cross-border relations and the ongoing fight against human smuggling.
Key Takeaways
- Checkpoints reinstated to combat illegal migration.
- 52 checkpoints established on the German border.
- 13 checkpoints on the Lithuanian border.
- Inspections will be random and targeted.
- Authorities seek cooperation from citizens and local governments.
Warsaw, July 7 (NationPress) Poland has reinstated checkpoints along its borders with Germany and Lithuania as of Monday, aimed at reducing illegal migration and enhancing national security, according to officials.
The Ministry of the Interior and Administration has established 52 checkpoints on the German border and 13 checkpoints on the Lithuanian border.
These inspections will be in effect for a duration of 30 days, concluding on August 5, and will be conducted by the Border Guard, with assistance from police and Territorial Defense Force members, stated the ministry.
Spokesperson for the Border Guard, Konrad Szwed, informed the Polish Press Agency that inspections will be random, prioritizing vans, vehicles with multiple occupants, and cars featuring tinted windows, as reported by Xinhua.
“It’s important to note that this won't resemble the previous border control measures before joining the Schengen zone—there won’t be any barriers or fences,” Szwed explained. “Vehicles will pass through, and checks will only be applied selectively based on our risk assessment. If a vehicle is stopped, the documents of the driver and passengers will be scrutinized, as well as the trunk.”
A nationwide alert has been issued to inform citizens about the new checks and promote cooperation, as mentioned by Minister of the Interior and Administration, Tomasz Siemoniak, during a press conference in Swiecko, located on the Polish-German border.
“We aim to minimize the inconvenience for citizens, including business owners and anyone benefiting from strong cross-border cooperation. I also anticipate support from local governments,” Siemoniak remarked.
In a recent update, Siemoniak reported that Border Guard officials apprehended a human smuggler, along with four other individuals.
On X, he stated, “Our border control is effective! Last night, on the Polish-Lithuanian border, a human smuggler was caught by the Border Guard, along with 4 Afghans he was transporting. The illegal migrants failed to cross the Polish-Belarusian barrier and attempted to enter Poland from Lithuania, but they were unsuccessful. They now face a quick transfer back to Lithuania under readmission.”
In October 2023, Germany implemented border control measures with Poland as part of wider efforts to combat illegal migration.
Point of View
We emphasize the importance of security measures while recognizing the need for seamless cross-border cooperation. Poland's reinstatement of checkpoints reflects a proactive stance against illegal migration, balancing national interests with the necessity for local collaboration.
NationPress
19/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of Poland reinstating checkpoints?
The primary purpose is to curb illegal migration and enhance national security.
How long will the checkpoints be in effect?
The checkpoints will remain active for 30 days, ending on August 5.
Who will conduct the inspections at these checkpoints?
Inspections will be carried out by the Border Guard, supported by police and Territorial Defense Force soldiers.
Will there be barriers at the checkpoints?
No, there will not be any barriers or fences; checks will be conducted selectively based on risk analysis.
What recent actions have been taken against human smuggling?
Recently, a human smuggler was apprehended along with four individuals attempting to enter Poland illegally.
