Recent Developments in Eastern European Asylum Policies

Poland's Asylum Suspension Law

A new asylum suspension law has come into effect in Poland, marking a significant shift in the country's approach to asylum seekers. Signed by President Andrezj Duda on March 26, 2025, the legislation allows Poland to temporarily suspend the rights of individuals entering the country irregularly via the Belarus border to apply for asylum. This decision followed the law’s approval by the Senate and comes after Duda had previously voiced concerns regarding the draft.

In his justification for signing the law, Duda stated it was essential for enhancing the security of Poland’s borders. He urged Prime Minister Donald Tusk to take proactive steps in addressing national security issues. However, various organizations within the European Council on Refugees and Exiles (ECRE) criticized the law, asserting that it poses a serious threat to individuals escaping war and persecution. The Ocalenie Foundation described the law as a victory for populism over a safe migration policy, while the Helsinki Foundation for Human Rights emphasized that the law would exacerbate the ongoing chaos at the border rather than increase safety.

The European Commission (EC) responded more favorably, highlighting the current geopolitical context, characterized by Russia's alleged weaponization of migration. An EC spokesperson stated that any measures implemented must be "temporary, necessary, proportionate, and well-defined."

Finland’s Legislative Changes and Reception Centre Closures

In Finland, the government plans to extend its controversial asylum law, known as the ‘Border Security Act.’ Initially set to expire after one year, the law permits Finnish authorities to deny asylum applications from individuals who enter the country irregularly from Russia. Although the law has been in effect since July 2024, the government expressed concerns that the situation at the border remains precarious.

Interior Minister Mari Rantanen commented on the need for continued vigilance, stating, "The threat of instrumentalised migration at Finland’s eastern border remains high and difficult to predict." The extension, which is likely to last until the end of 2026, is expected to receive support from the Social Democratic Party and Centre Party, while opponents, including the Greens and Left Alliance, argue for a balance between border security and human rights obligations.

In addition, the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) announced plans to close 18 reception centres by 2025. This decision is attributed to a significant decline in asylum applications, which dropped by 45% in 2024 compared to the previous year. Many residents of the affected centres are eligible for municipal residency, prompting a shift in resource allocation.

Latvia and Lithuania Tighten Border Controls

The Latvian government has imposed stricter controls at three border checkpoints with Russia and Belarus. Since March 19, access has been restricted to motor vehicles, preventing pedestrians and cyclists from crossing. This decision arises from concerns about security risks and potential migration challenges. The head of the State Border Guard in Latvia noted an increasing number of border violators potentially attempting to redirect their movements from Poland to Latvia.

In Lithuania, border guards have been accused of unlawfully pushing back migrants at the Belarus border. According to the NGO Sienos Grupė, officials reportedly forced a group of asylum seekers from Kenya and Sudan to return to Belarus, despite their attempts to request asylum at the Medininkai checkpoint. The border guards deny these allegations, asserting that there was no formal request for asylum, and maintain their operations are legitimate.

Conclusion

These recent developments in Poland, Finland, Latvia, and Lithuania illustrate a broader trend of tightening asylum policies across Eastern Europe. Critics argue that these measures undermine the rights of individuals seeking refuge, while governments cite national security concerns as justification for their actions. As the situation at borders evolves, the implications for migrant rights and regional stability remain a critical area of concern for advocates and policymakers alike.