Anti-immigration protests unfolded across more than 80 cities in Poland on Saturday, July 19, 2025, drawing thousands of participants demanding stricter controls on migration. The demonstrations, largely organized by the far-right Confederation party, saw protesters carrying banners with slogans such as “Stop Immigration” and “Refugees Not Welcome.” This widespread action follows Poland's recent reintroduction of border controls with Germany and Lithuania, which became effective on July 7.
A notable gathering occurred in Katowice, where fans of two rival football teams put aside their traditional animosities to join the protest. Images from the event depicted these fans holding banners expressing their opposition to immigration, highlighting a rare moment of unity among typically opposing groups. This convergence underscores the depth of anti-immigration sentiment among certain segments of the Polish population, including organized fan communities.
The protests come amidst an ongoing national debate regarding immigration policy, with the issue playing a significant role in recent political campaigns. While right-wing politicians frequently claim Poland faces a flood of illegal migrants, official data does not consistently support these assertions. The current government has also taken steps to tighten asylum rules and border security, including suspending the right to claim asylum for those crossing from Belarus.
Organizers stated the demonstrations were a response to public expectations and opposition to mass migration, the influx of immigrants from Germany, and the adoption of the Migration Pact. Some protests, particularly in Warsaw and Katowice, were met with smaller counter-demonstrations advocating for the acceptance of refugees and opposing fascism. The scale of Saturday's protests indicates a continued strong public discourse around immigration in Poland.