Belarus, Poland: Further violence possible near Kuznica-Bruzgi border crossing following clashes Nov. 9

Event

Further security disturbances are likely near the Kuznica-Bruzgi border crossing on the Belarus-Poland border in the coming days after Polish security forces clashed with hundreds of migrants attempting to enter Poland. Polish border guards reportedly used tear gas to disperse migrants attempting to cross into the country Nov. 8. The Kuznica-Bruzgi border crossing, where most of the migrants had been attempting to enter Poland, has been closed by authorities on both sides. Polish authorities have deployed additional security forces to the area.

In addition, residents of Kuznica and other border towns could stage anti-immigration demonstrations; any such protest that may materialize could potentially escalate to violence. Individuals associated with groups providing humanitarian relief to refugees or that support migrants' attempts to enter the EU could be targeted for harassment or acts of vandalism.

Further short-term border crossing closures are likely without warning in the coming days, which could prompt congestion and associated crossing delays on alternative routes.

Context

Poland has reported 17,000 illegal border crossings since early October. Clashes between migrants and Polish security forces have subsequently increased as police and border guards have been authorized to turn migrants back to Belarus. However, Belarusian border guards are similarly refusing to allow migrants to turn back. As a result, around 3,000 migrants are encamped near Bruzgi, Belarus. The events on Nov. 8 represent the first time migrants have apparently organized via social media a mass run on the border in an attempt to overwhelm increasingly well-prepared border guards. Further such incidents remain possible as the situation persists.

Advice

Check the status of the Kuznica-Bruzgi border crossing before setting out and allow additional time to navigate customs procedures. Avoid all demonstrations as a routine security precaution. Leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Be discreet if working with migrant-associated charities or other organizations.