The Polish Foreign Minister, Zbigniew Rau, appeared on TVP’s program Guest News, addressing the opposition’s allegations about the so-called visa scandal and commenting on the issue of illegal migration around Lampedusa. He reminded viewers that Poland long criticized Angela Merkel’s migration policy from the outset, framing the topic as a global challenge that centers on Europe. He noted that the current crisis is a culmination of the EU’s migration dynamics, arguing that decision makers in Berlin and Brussels did not listen to Poland’s position. Rau emphasized that uncontrolled migration and an open-door policy, as he described it, would have consequences. He added that there is no simple EU formula to resolve the crisis as it stands. Poland has consistently argued that migration issues should be tackled within the European Union on two conditions: the state must decide who to admit and under what terms, and this should be done collectively with clear boundaries.
– he stated.
The lie of the opposition
Rau addressed the allegations about the so-called visa scandal, accusing the opposition of spreading deliberate falsehoods. He described the controversy as a cascade of misinformation and slander used in recent days, insisting that there is no visa scandal, only a string of untruths propagated by political opponents.
Rau then presented precise data on visa issuance by Poland. He stressed that irregularities were detected in the issuance of just over 200 visas within the past 30 months. The Polish services and the Central Anti-Corruption Bureau, working under the supervision of the prosecutor’s office, had identified these irregularities. In the same period, nearly 2 million visas had been issued, with about 1.5 million going to Belarusians and Ukrainians over 30 months. When these numbers are compared, the alleged 200 cases represent roughly one-tenth of one per thousand. He argued that this is the scope of what the opposition calls a visa scandal. Seven individuals were charged in connection with the matter, three were deprived of liberty, one official was dismissed, and Deputy Minister Piotr Wawrzyk was removed from his position due to political responsibility for the events.
– Rau explained.
He added that neighboring countries hold their own standards for Polish representatives, underscoring a sense of shared responsibility and accountability. He asserted that Poland emphasizes strong border controls and a firm stance on migration, pointing to the eastern border with Belarus as a practical demonstration of their approach. He argued that neighboring states expect tough measures from those who would advocate opening borders, while Poland maintains vigilance to prevent migratory pressure from shifting onto its soil.
– Rau concluded.
The coverage also highlighted Rau’s remarks about how many opponents are urging positions that would place Poland in a compromising situation regarding border security and migration policy. The discussion reflected a broader debate about national sovereignty, collective EU responsibility, and the mechanisms by which European states manage migratory flows in ways that respect both security and humanitarian principles.