The ‘green border,’ part of which is stretching through the dense Białowieża Forest. (Photo: Adam Barwiński)
In the forest at the Poland-Belarus border, thousands of people on the move are caught in a dire situation, facing violence from authorities on both sides in an area marked by a human rights crisis.
Brutal Barriers
Oxfam and its Polish human rights partner the Egala Association, recently published a report called ‘Brutal Barriers’, highlighting the challenges faced by people on the move navigating the swamplands between Belarus and Poland in search of safety.
No-entry Zone at the Poland-Belarus Border (Implemented on 13 June 2024).
An escalating humanitarian crisis
Since mid-2021, Poland’s border with Belarus has become the site of an escalating humanitarian and human rights crisis. Belarus began issuing visas to third-country nationals as part of a route to the EU, drawing many from conflict-affected regions in Africa and the Middle East. With few safe options to seek asylum, thousands have attempted to cross the heavily militarized border, risking life-threatening conditions in the forests.
People on the move
Hear the human impact of restrictive and inhumane border policies from volunteers and those who are seeking protection. Learn about their urgent needs and the steps we must take to protect people.