Poland: Border Pushbacks, Landmines & Ukrainian Refugee Status Changes

Poland Tightens Borders, Curbs Refugee Support Amid Security Concerns

Poland is navigating a complex shift in its security posture and social policies, marked by increased border security measures, a potential return to anti-personnel landmines, and the curtailment of special protections for Ukrainian refugees. These developments, occurring within a year of a conservative presidential election, reflect a hardening stance on national security and a re-evaluation of social welfare provisions, raising concerns among human rights organizations and international observers. The moves come as Poland grapples with regional instability stemming from the war in Ukraine and heightened security anxieties related to its borders with Belarus and Russia.

Border Pushbacks and Violence Documented

A recent report by a coalition of NGOs, including the Hungarian Helsinki Committee, has detailed a significant number of pushbacks and instances of violence against migrants attempting to cross Poland’s eastern borders. The report, published in February 2026, recorded 14,754 pushbacks along the Polish-Belarusian border in 2025, making Poland responsible for the highest number of pushbacks from any EU member state. The full report details a pattern of summary returns without due process, often accompanied by reports of physical abuse and the confiscation of belongings. Anikó Bakonyi of the Hungarian Helsinki Committee noted that such violence often occurs “out of sight of cameras and journalists, in ever more inaccessible border zones.” This echoes broader concerns about the treatment of migrants at EU external borders, where oversight and accountability remain limited.

Mines on the Horizon: Poland Reverses Convention Stance

In a move that has drawn international criticism, Poland has announced its intention to lay landmines along its border with Russia, following its withdrawal from the Anti-Personnel Landmines Convention (also known as the Ottawa Convention). Prime Minister Donald Tusk presented a hybrid mine-laying system on February 27, 2026, stating that Poland could begin mining its border “within 48 hours” if a threat materialized. According to Euronews, Tusk framed the move as essential to Poland’s security, emphasizing the “East Shield” project designed to bolster defenses. Poland joins Estonia, Finland, Latvia, and Lithuania in leaving the convention, citing security concerns related to Russia’s aggression in Ukraine. Though, the decision has sparked alarm among humanitarian organizations, who warn of the devastating consequences for civilians, particularly refugees and migrants attempting to cross the border irregularly. Amnesty International, through Julia Głębocka, has cautioned about the creation of a “novel, horrifying and dangerous reality for people seeking protection in Europe.”

Ukrainian Refugee Status Revoked: A Shift in Polish Policy

On February 20, 2026, Polish President Karol Nawrocki signed into law a measure ending the special legal and social status granted to Ukrainian refugees in 2022. Notes from Poland reported that Nawrocki justified the change by claiming the special status had created “a sense of inequality towards Polish citizens.” The new law ties benefits to employment and tax contributions, limiting access to housing, food, and healthcare for those unable to perform, such as single mothers, the elderly, and people with disabilities. While the temporary protection status for Ukrainians has been extended until March 2027, and core healthcare and child benefits remain formally in place, experts predict the reforms will disproportionately impact vulnerable refugees. This decision follows earlier proposals from both the ruling government and the opposition PiS party to reduce benefits for refugees and migrants, reflecting a broader political consensus on the require to reassess social welfare provisions.

Political Context: A Conservative Shift

These policy changes are occurring against the backdrop of a recent shift in Polish politics. Karol Nawrocki, elected in June 2025, campaigned on a “Poland First” platform, echoing some of the rhetoric of former US President Donald Trump. His election represented a setback for Prime Minister Donald Tusk, a vocal supporter of Ukraine, and signaled a more conservative approach to immigration and national security. Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty detailed the political storm surrounding Nawrocki’s veto of aid to Ukrainian refugees in August 2025, highlighting the tensions between the President and the Prime Minister. While Nawrocki has voiced support for Ukraine’s defense against Russia, he has also expressed reservations about Ukraine’s NATO membership, a view gaining traction among some segments of the Polish population. The current government, while still supportive of Ukraine, appears to be responding to public concerns about the costs associated with hosting a large refugee population – estimated at 1.5 million – and a desire to prioritize the needs of Polish citizens.

The Evolving Landscape of Refugee Support

The decision to finish the special status for Ukrainian refugees aligns with a broader trend in Europe of reassessing refugee policies. Prime Minister Tusk, while previously critical of such measures, now favors tying benefits to employment, a proposal initially put forward by the opposition PiS party. Kyiv Post reported in January 2025 that Rafał Trzaskowski, the mayor of Warsaw and a potential presidential candidate, proposed a similar change, arguing that benefits should be contingent on work, residency, and tax payments. This reflects a growing concern among policymakers about the potential for “benefit tourism” and the need to ensure that social welfare systems are sustainable. However, critics argue that such measures could push vulnerable refugees into the informal economy and exacerbate existing inequalities.

What’s Confirmed vs. Unclear

Confirmed: Poland has ended the special legal status for Ukrainian refugees, implemented increased border security measures, and announced its intention to lay landmines along its border with Russia. A recent NGO report documents a high number of pushbacks and instances of violence against migrants at the Polish-Belarusian border. President Nawrocki’s election signaled a shift towards a more conservative political landscape.Unclear: The precise timeline for the deployment of landmines remains uncertain. The long-term impact of the changes to Ukrainian refugee status on the most vulnerable populations is still unfolding. The extent to which public opinion is driving these policy changes, versus political calculation, is subject to ongoing debate.

Looking Ahead: The coming months will be crucial in determining the full impact of these policy changes. Poland will need to balance its security concerns with its humanitarian obligations, and navigate the complex political dynamics surrounding the war in Ukraine. The European Union will likely face increased pressure to address the issue of border security and refugee support, and to ensure that member states adhere to international human rights standards. The situation will require continued monitoring by NGOs and international organizations, as well as a commitment from the Polish government to transparency and accountability.