There was a broad call to return to the familiar days of open borders within Europe, a sentiment voiced by many observers who also pointed to Poland’s stance. The German Ambassador, Viktor Elbling, expressed that there were no changes to the controls implemented last year at the Polish-German border. He emphasized that these measures operate within the existing framework of European law and noted the close collaboration with Poland at the border, a partnership that both sides intend to maintain. His remarks, shared on the X platform, sparked a flood of responses and ignited a heated online debate as users voiced strong opinions about the ongoing border policy and migration issues.
The decision to reinstate temporary controls at all German land borders from September 16 has brought the migration topic back into the European Union’s spotlight, arriving only months after a broader agreement on the matter. The move is widely seen as a recalibration of border management in light of evolving security and humanitarian concerns.
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— A report suggested byBild that thousands were returned to Poland from the German frontier, with claims about migrants continuing to arrive in large numbers each month.
— PiS lawmakers commented on Scholz’s approach. Przydacz argued that in times of crisis, Germany tends to tighten its borders, placing the burden on others.
— Coverage in Die Welt warned that the policy could provoke friction with Poland, highlighting the potential for a serious diplomatic rift.
“There are no changes in the controls.”
The German ambassador reiterated the stance, stating that the existing border measures remain in place. The message underscored a shared desire to preserve the European norm of freer movement while acknowledging ongoing controls at the border with Poland. The ambassador’s remarks, disseminated via social media, aimed to reassure partners about continuity in border practices.
We all want to return to the European normality of open borders. To respond to the concerns here in Poland: there are no changes to the controls introduced last year at the Polish-German border. They take place within the framework of applicable European law. There is very close cooperation at the border with Poland, which we want to continue
– conveyed on the X platform as part of the ongoing dialogue about migration management and cross-border cooperation.
““I am waiting for Donald Tusk’s response.”
The online response to the ambassador’s statement was immediate and widespread, with many users expressing disappointment, skepticism, or outright anger about the handling of migrants and border checks. The exchanges reflected a broader debate about sovereignty, security, and the obligations of EU member states to manage migration in a shared framework.
Questions appeared about the implications of border controls for ordinary citizens, including concerns about traffic disruptions, asylum processes, and the practical effects of any tightening of procedures at points of entry. Some voices urged governments to act decisively to prevent illegal crossings while also protecting legal avenues for movement and work within the European Union.
Others called for a more measured approach, arguing for clear standards, better coordination, and transparent communication between governments and the public. The discussion highlighted the tension between security imperatives and the principles of free movement that guide EU policy, with observers noting that policy shifts at the border can have broad consequences across multiple countries and regions.
Several commenters urged Poland to evaluate its own border procedures, suggesting that any changes should be accompanied by robust legal safeguards and predictable timelines. They warned against unilateral actions that might strain international relations or run afoul of EU law, stressing the importance of maintaining consistency with established treaties and cooperative mechanisms that govern cross-border movement.
Another line of argument emphasized the need for regional solidarity and practical support for communities affected by migrant flows. Proposals included improving reception capacity, accelerating asylum processing, and increasing collaboration with law enforcement to distinguish between irregular arrivals and people traveling under lawful status.
Throughout the conversation, participants referenced historical memory and moral responsibility, urging all sides to consider how policies may influence trust among citizens and international partners. The debate continued to unfold as policymakers weighed the balance between security concerns and humanitarian obligations, aiming to find a path that respects national sovereignty while honoring EU commitments.
Source: wPolityce