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Poles unsupportive of self-proclaimed ‘citizen’ border patrols: survey

27.07.2025 11:30
More than 40% of Poles view the activities of the so-called Civic Border Defence negatively, while just over 30% hold an opposing view, a recent survey has shown.
Self-proclaimed citizen border patrols are organised by far-right activists on the border, targeting alleged smuggling of illegal migrants from Germany into Poland.
Self-proclaimed ‘citizen’ border patrols are organised by far-right activists on the border, targeting alleged smuggling of illegal migrants from Germany into Poland. Photo: Rex Features/East News

The campaign includes 'citizen' patrols organised by far-right activists on the border, targeting alleged smuggling of illegal migrants from Germany into Poland.

According to an Ipsos poll for public broadcaster TVP published on Sunday, 42% of respondents hold a negative opinion of the mevement, including 32% who describe their stance as "strongly negative."

In contrast, 34% of those surveyed expressed support for the patrols, with 17% rating their actions "strongly positive."

Meanwhile, 24% said they were unsure or had no opinion.

Led by far-right activist Robert Bąkiewicz, the Civic Border Defence Movement comprises nationalist groups, football ultras, and local residents who patrol the Polish-German border.

They claim to prevent illegal border crossings from Germany after the Polish government reinstated temporary border controls earlier this month over alleged illegal migrant crossings.

Incidents such as the unlawful stopping of vehicles have raised concerns, prompting authorities and civil rights groups to criticise these patrols and urge citizens to leave border security to the professionals.

(mo)

Source: PAP