Poland: Is Helping Immigrants a Crime?
Bialystok, Poland - August 31, 2025, marked a significant day for European politics as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visited the Polish-Belarusian border alongside Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. The visit highlighted Poland's stringent border security measures and its success in deterring irregular migrants from entering the European Union.
However, just two days later, five refugee aid workers stood trial in nearby Bialystok for allegedly providing essential supplies to immigrants attempting to cross the border. Dubbed the "Hajnowka Five" or "H5," their trial has garnered significant media attention and sparked debate about Poland's treatment of migrants.
The accused - three women and two men - face charges of human trafficking, a crime punishable by up to 10 years in prison. According to court documents, they provided essential supplies, including food, water, and clothing, to immigrants attempting to cross the border in March 2022.
"We were just trying to help people in need," said one of the defendants, Mariusz Chyzynski, during a pre-trial hearing. "We didn't think we were breaking any laws."
The trial has drawn criticism from human rights groups and some lawmakers who argue that Poland's policies are driving migrants towards more perilous routes.
"Poland's actions are having a devastating impact on the lives of thousands of people," said Anna Olszewska, a spokesperson for the Polish Human Rights Committee. "By denying them access to basic necessities, we're essentially condemning them to death."
However, others argue that Poland has every right to protect its borders and maintain order.
"Poland is simply enforcing its laws and protecting its citizens," said Marek Kozlowski, a member of the Polish Parliament. "If these individuals are found guilty, they will have broken our laws and must face the consequences."
The trial's timing has also been questioned by some, given the European Commission President's visit to the border just two days prior.
"It seems like Poland is trying to send a message," said Olszewska. "By prosecuting these aid workers, they're sending a clear signal that helping migrants is not welcome in Poland."
The trial is ongoing, with the next hearing scheduled for September 15, 2025. The outcome will have significant implications for Poland's treatment of migrants and its relations with the European Union.
Background: In March 2022, thousands of migrants attempted to cross into Poland from Belarus, sparking a humanitarian crisis. Poland responded by building a steel wall along its border and increasing security measures. Since then, several aid workers have been arrested and charged with human trafficking for providing essential supplies to migrants.
Additional perspectives:
The European Commission has expressed concern over Poland's treatment of migrants and the prosecution of aid workers.
Human rights groups have condemned Poland's policies as inhumane and counterproductive.
Polish lawmakers have defended their country's actions, arguing that they are enforcing its laws and protecting its citizens.
Current status: The trial is ongoing, with the next hearing scheduled for September 15, 2025.
*Reporting by Dw.*
