Poland proposes stricter penalties for facilitating illegal migration

The Polish government is proposing amendments to the Criminal Code aimed at tightening regulations regarding illegal migration. Specifically, the Ministry of the Interior and Administration has suggested changes to Article 264a to address what officials describe as a legal loophole.

Currently, the law penalizes facilitating illegal stays for financial or personal gain. The proposed amendment would introduce a provision where anyone who knowingly facilitates the continued stay of an individual in Poland in violation of regulations could face up to three years in prison, regardless of whether a profit is made.

While the Ministry of the Interior and Administration argues this is necessary to combat migrant smuggling and prevent illegal migration into Western Europe, legal experts and defense attorneys have raised concerns. Critics argue the change is not targeted at smugglers but could instead penalize activists and border residents providing humanitarian aid to foreigners who have crossed the border illegally.