UN Accuses Poland for Double Standard Approach and Discrimination of Non-Ukrainian Migrants
However, the Rapporteur didn’t have nice words to say regarding the treatment of non-Ukrainian refugees in Poland, but he rather denounced the government’s approach, which does not align with the human rights set by international regulations, AtoZSerwisPlus.com reports.
“I note with concern that this double standard approach has led to feelings of being discriminated among third-country nationals,” the UN expert said.
During his visit to Poland and Belarus, the Rapporteur addressed all issues regarding the migration situation in these countries, as well as the EU, and pointed out that although non-Ukrainian migrants have fled wars, the same treatment offered to Ukrainians isn’t at their disposal, and they aren’t even protected under the same legal framework.
More specifically, the UN expert was implying that the Temporary Protection Directive, a measure activated for people who are fleeing their home countries due to security concerns, hasn’t been equally applicable to all migrants.
This measure enters force for migrants to gain international protection in the host country, access to accommodation, healthcare, work, and other benefits.
“Even for those that have fled the same war, although all were accepted for entry into Poland and have received assistance from the State, third-country nationals are not protected under the same legal framework. Those with specific vulnerabilities, including the ones with irregular migratory status, face heightened difficulties in obtaining residence permits and proper shelter,” he said.
According to data from the UN, over two million refugees are currently staying in Poland, with the majority of those being Ukrainian nationals sheltered in private homes by Polish people, while non-Ukrainian migrants remain in asylum centres, if not stand in borders, as is the case with the Belarusian side.
More specifically, the UN expert urged authorities to immediately release vulnerable categories, as those are subject to detention at the already closed Temporary Logistical Centre in Belarus or closed immigration facilities on the other side of the border – Poland
“I urge relevant authorities to immediately release unaccompanied children, children with their families, pregnant women, and individuals with mental conditions into open facilities,” he said.
The Rapporteur Gonzales Morales also called on Poland and the EU to establish communication regarding the matter and urged them to protect human rights and avoid further loss of life, as well as pushbacks.
