Poland Implements Temporary Border Controls with Germany and Lithuania

On July 1, 2025, Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced the reintroduction of temporary border controls with Germany and Lithuania, effective July 7. This decision arises amidst escalating tensions over illegal immigration within the Schengen Area, which allows free movement among its member states. Prime Minister Tusk expressed concern over irregular migration patterns, specifically citing potential instances where Germany may be sending migrants back to Poland, a claim that has been met with denials from German officials.

The Polish government has invested considerable resources in securing its eastern border with Belarus, and Tusk emphasized the importance of maintaining this security as Poland seeks to manage its immigration challenges effectively. "We have put a lot of effort, money, sweat, and unfortunately some blood, to make the eastern border with Belarus airtight," Tusk stated, underlining the seriousness of the situation.

In response to Poland's announcement, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz defended Germany's own border measures, emphasizing the need to uphold the integrity of the Schengen Area while addressing issues related to illegal migration and human smuggling. "Freedom of movement in the Schengen area will only work in the long term if it is not abused by those who promote irregular migration," Merz remarked during a press conference.

The reintroduction of border checks by Poland is not an isolated case; it reflects a broader trend within the Schengen Zone, where as of July 1, 2025, at least 11 of the 29 member countries have taken similar steps in response to rising immigration pressures. This includes Austria, France, and Italy, all of which have notified the European Commission of their plans to reestablish border controls.

European Commission spokesperson Markus Lammert reiterated that the Schengen Border Code allows for temporary border controls under specific conditions, and he noted ongoing communication with member states regarding these developments. The Commission aims to manage the internal border controls in a manner that preserves the principle of free movement while addressing security concerns.

Poland's decision to impose border checks has sparked discussions surrounding the future of the Schengen Area, as it raises questions about the balance between national security and the fundamental freedoms that underpin European integration. Observers note that the increasing tendency to reinforce borders could lead to a fracturing of the open borders policy, affecting tourism, trade, and the overall cohesion of the European Union.

In light of these developments, experts urge a unified approach among EU member states to address the root causes of migration and to develop comprehensive policies that promote both security and humanitarian considerations. The ongoing dialogue between Poland and Germany, as well as other Schengen countries, will be critical in navigating the complex landscape of immigration and border security in Europe moving forward.