WARSAW - Authorities are unlawfully, and sometimes violently , forcing people trying to enter the country back to Belarus, ignoring their protection needs, according to Human Rights Watch.
Abuses include beatings with batons, use of pepper spray, and theft. Those pushed back risk serious abuse at the hands of Belarus officials or being trapped in the open air.
Poland’s inhumane and illegal pushbacks of people seeking safety fly in the face of its duties under national and EU law and basic humanity.
Polish authorities should ensure access to the asylum procedure and allow aid workers and independent observers access to the currently restricted border area.
