Border Control Stress Test Kicks Off During Holiday Season, According to ADAC - Border Control Stress Test Initiated by ADAC at Holiday's Onset
As of July 7, 2025, Poland has reinstated temporary border controls with Germany and Lithuania in response to concerns over illegal migration and alleged irregular migrant transfers from Germany into Poland [1][2]. These controls, which began overnight on July 6-7, are initially set for a 30-day period, with the possibility of extension depending on the evolving situation [2].
The reinstated checks involve numerous crossing points: - 52 crossing points along the 467-kilometer Poland-Germany border - 13 crossing points on the 104-kilometer Poland-Lithuania border [2].
This move follows earlier German restrictions aimed at discouraging asylum seekers, and reflects increased tensions related to illegal migration within the Schengen free travel zone [2]. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk criticized Germany for allegedly transporting migrants into Polish territory [1][2].
The German government, led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, has taken a tougher stance on migration, increasing police presence at the border and turning away some asylum seekers [2]. Despite the reintroduction of controls, German and Polish authorities are reportedly cooperating to minimize the disruption caused by these border measures [2].
During the summer vacation period, travelers between Germany, Poland, and Lithuania should expect increased border checks which may cause delays, especially at major crossing points. The controls could disrupt the usual ease of travel within the Schengen area during peak vacation times, potentially increasing waiting times and complicating tourism and cross-border commuting. Authorities emphasize these controls are temporary and limited to exceptional circumstances related to security and migration, aiming to balance enforcement with minimizing inconvenience [2].
[1] BBC News. (2025, July 7). Poland reintroduces border controls with Germany and Lithuania. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-58930468
[2] Deutsche Welle. (2025, July 7). Poland reinstates border controls with Germany and Lithuania. Retrieved from https://www.dw.com/en/poland-reinstates-border-controls-with-germany-and-lithuania/a-58930584
[3] Reuters. (2025, July 7). Poland reinstates border controls with Germany and Lithuania. Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/poland-reinstates-border-controls-germany-lithuania-2025-07-07/
In light of Poland's reinstatement of temporary border controls with Germany and Lithuania due to concerns over illegal migration and allegations of irregular migrant transfers, the Polish government should consider implementing community policies emphasizing vocational training as a means to create opportunities and minimalize the incentive for illegal immigration.
These border controls, initially set for a 30-day period with further extensions, have sparked debate within the political landscape, highlighting the need for discussions on comprehensive immigration policies that address the root causes of migration and promote legal channels for vocational training and employment, thereby reducing dependence on general-news related to illegal migration.
