Belarus, Poland: Further unrest and violence possible near Kuznica-Bruzgi border crossing following clashes Nov. 16 /update 1

Event

Further security disturbances are likely near the Kuznica-Bruzgi border crossing on the Belarus-Poland border in the coming days as large groups of migrants continue attempts to enter Poland. Violence was reported in the area early on Nov. 16; Polish security forces have used tear gas and water cannon to disperse crowds attempting to cross the border. The Kuznica-Bruzgi border crossing, where many migrants have been attempting to enter Poland, remains closed by authorities on both sides. Poland and Belarus have both deployed additional security forces to the area.

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.

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

The border crisis has shown little signs of abating in recent days. Migrants continue to arrive on the Belarusian side of the border and clashes have occurred as migrants periodically attempt to enter Poland. The EU agreed to apply additional sanctions to Belarus on Nov. 15, accusing the government of manufacturing the crisis in retaliation for previous EU sanctions in support of the Belarusian opposition.

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 return to urban areas. As a result, around 3,000 migrants are encamped near Bruzgi, Belarus.

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.