Anti-Immigration Protests Erupt in Poland Ahead of Presidential Elections
This weekend, Poland saw anti-immigration protests led by far-right groups, coinciding with the lead-up to the country’s presidential elections scheduled for May 18. The demonstration, which took place in Warsaw, was driven by opposition to the establishment of integration and assistance centers for immigrants. Protesters also called for the reinstatement of control over the Polish-German border.
The protest was organized by Robert Bakiewicz, the leader of the Independence March Association, who expressed concerns over the cultural impact of immigration. “We are marching for a free, independent, sovereign Poland, without massive immigration,” Bakiewicz declared, stressing fears about the imposition of foreign cultures and religions.
The Role of Immigration in Poland’s Elections
The protest holds particular significance as it occurs just weeks before Poland’s presidential elections, where immigration is expected to be a central issue. The country’s stance on immigration has undergone a noticeable shift in recent years. Initially, Poland became a beacon of solidarity when it opened its doors to millions of Ukrainian refugees following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. However, after three years, public sentiment has shifted, with growing fatigue surrounding continued support for refugees.
Currently, nearly a million Ukrainian refugees remain in Poland. Some presidential candidates are now calling for reduced support for these refugees, aligning their policies with a broader desire to appeal to voters concerned about immigration and national identity.
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