After Germany, Poland and the Czech Republic now also want to introduce temporary border controls. It’s about the borders with Slovakia. The background is the increase in migration via the Balkan route.
The Czech Republic and Poland have announced stricter controls along their borders with Slovakia. This was intended to curb illegal migration flows and make the work of smugglers more difficult, both countries said.
“Necessary measure against smuggler gangs”
Starting tomorrow, the stricter controls would initially begin for ten days. However, the period could also be extended. “This is a necessary measure to effectively combat smuggling gangs and illegal migration,” wrote Czech Interior Minister Vit Rakusan on the X platform (formerly Twitter).
The checks will be carried out randomly along the entire border with Slovakia. Cross-border traffic should be restricted as little as possible and travelers should not be burdened unnecessarily.
Slovakia reacts angrily
Slovakia reacted angrily to the announcement. “Migration needs a European solution at the external borders,” demanded the acting Prime Minister of Slovakia, Ludovit Odor. He warned of a “domino effect” that could lead to more and more EU states controlling internal borders. “We are all paying for this with our money – with uncertain results,” criticized Odor.
Migration via Balkan route
Slovakia is faced with an increasing number of migrants entering the country on their way to Germany and Western Europe. The migrants, especially young men from the Middle East and Afghanistan, mostly come via the so-called Balkan route.
Polish Interior Minister Mariusz Kaminski said he had informed his counterparts in Germany, Slovakia, Austria and the Czech Republic, as well as the European Commission, about the new controls. In the past few weeks, 551 migrants have been discovered and arrested at the border with Slovakia. That is why Poland is now taking decisive measures.