Poland's New Law: Law Enforcement Gains Impunity Amid Rising Border Tensions

Polish deputies voted for a controversial law this Friday that grants law enforcement the ability to use their weapons without accountability in situations deemed a threat to national security or individual safety, particularly along the tense border with Belarus. This legislation, which still requires the head of state's approval to take effect, follows a tragic incident where a Polish soldier was fatally stabbed at the border. The law raises significant concerns among human rights advocates and the Council of Europe, which warns that it could lead to a dangerous precedent of unaccountable actions by police, border guards, and military personnel. Critics argue that the law could undermine the principles of proportionality and accountability in the use of force, potentially resulting in human rights violations. Poland has accused Russia, an ally of Belarus, of facilitating illegal migration from Africa to Europe, intensifying the situation at the border. The Polish army has announced an increased military presence in response to ongoing provocations, following previous attacks on its soldiers in the area.