Franciszek Sterczewski, a coalition member of parliament who gained attention after a controversial incident near the Polish-Belarusian border that disrupted border guard operations, appeared on RMF FM to call for immediate reforms in how Poland manages border situations should a new government take office. He argued for a clear reframing of border policy to be announced once the government transition occurs, with practical steps outlined for a smoother, more humane process.
According to Sterczewski, the top priority is to reform how Polish institutions conduct themselves at the border and to address the needs at the Polish-Ukrainian boundary. He proposed a sequence of actions designed to convert the border into a managed system that balances humanitarian considerations with security requirements. The plan emphasizes a structured, law‑driven approach that clarifies roles, responsibilities, and timelines for all actors involved.
He stated that the Border Guard should establish reception points and collaborate closely with nonprofit aid organizations and international partners. The initial measures would provide immediate assistance, including water, food, and medical care, while ensuring that decisions about international protection are made in line with Polish and European legal frameworks. The emphasis is on humane treatment within the rule of law, with a transparent process for assessing eligibility for protection.
Sterczewski warned that adopting the proposed approach without careful governance could weaken Poland’s border defenses. He raised questions about why the Border Guard would need to decide on accepting individuals who attempt illegal crossings and cautioned that too open a policy might create vulnerabilities if not properly monitored and regulated.
In a broader policy program, Sterczewski addressed reproductive rights, including abortion on demand up to the twelfth week, as well as civil partnerships. He framed these positions as part of a broader left‑leaning policy agenda and a strategy to mobilize support for significant social reforms, while stressing the need for broad public engagement and political consensus.
With references to current leadership, he acknowledged that the president at the moment is seen as a stabilizing figure, yet he signaled that a new president could assume office soon. He expressed a desire for leadership willing to endorse his proposed reforms and urged readiness to engage in political action regardless of prevailing circumstances, pledging to persist in pursuing these issues until they are resolved.
He explained that the campaign would proceed under all possible conditions, including challenging political climates. The commitment, he added, is to pursue durable reform with persistence and resilience, aiming for broad impact rather than quick, temporary fixes.
The discussion on border policy and humanitarian measures was framed within a wider conversation about governance and accountability in security operations and social policy. Sterczewski indicated willingness to participate in the political process to advance the changes he supports, while stressing the need for careful legal alignment and clear operational guidelines to prevent confusion and ensure effective implementation.
The remarks appeared amid ongoing debates about border security, humanitarian aid, and social policy reforms. Critics argued that such changes might erode established security protocols or complicate procedures for handling migrants and asylum seekers. Supporters contended that enhanced reception capacity and clearly defined legal pathways could reduce pressures at irregular border crossings while ensuring compliance with international obligations.
Observers noted that Sterczewski’s comments reflect a broader tension between security imperatives and humanitarian commitments in Polish public policy. They highlighted the importance of a clear legal framework, effective coordination with nonprofit organizations, and robust oversight to prevent abuse while upholding human rights.