The German Federal Interior Minister, Alexander Dobrindt, has expressed strong approval of border checks initiated by Poland since Monday, specifically targeting the borders with Lithuania and Germany. According to Dobrindt, these measures represent a “significant step in our joint efforts to combat irregular migration.
The Minister emphasized close coordination between the German and Polish governments in implementing the controls. Initial successes in disrupting human smuggling networks have already been reported, with Polish authorities having detained an individual attempting to illegally transport four individuals from Afghanistan across the border with Lithuania.
Dobrindt characterized the heightened border controls as a temporary but currently necessary measure to manage migration flows and establish a new order. He stated the action is required to facilitate a more regulated process.
However, concerns are emerging from various sectors. The German Police Union has voiced apprehension that the dual border checks and potential rejections could lead to a “ping-pong effect” where asylum seekers and those seeking protection are repeatedly transferred between countries. Business associations are also expressing worries about potential disruptions to the free flow of goods and skilled workers.
