The Czech Republic and Poland have jointly decided to implement checks along their borders with Slovakia in an effort to curb illegal migration and smuggling activities. This move, which begins on Wednesday and is set to last at least 10 days, has prompted Austria to take similar measures. The decision has sparked frustration in Slovakia, which is expected to respond to these actions on Wednesday.
Illegal migration has been a contentious and unifying issue in Central Europe. The Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia, all part of the EU’s Schengen visa-free zone, have historically opposed European Union migration plans, such as quotas. However, the reinstatement of border controls during periods of increased migrant flows has led to political and trade tensions.
The issue of illegal migration played a significant role in Slovakia’s recent elections and is also a key topic in the upcoming elections in Poland. Czech Interior Minister Vit Rakusan stated that the border checks are necessary to effectively combat smuggling groups and illegal migration. The checks will be random and spread across the entire border to minimize disruption to cross-border traffic.
Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karner announced that Austria would also introduce checks on its border with Slovakia, continuing its policy of matching Czech controls to prevent spillover effects.
Slovakia has experienced an increase in illegal migrants, primarily young men from the Middle East and Afghanistan, traveling through the so-called Balkan route from Serbia via Hungary. The Slovak government has stated that it is nearly impossible to completely seal the 655 km border with Hungary but has deployed up to 500 soldiers to assist police patrols.
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