EU Migration Pact Revolt: Poland Rejects Relocation As States Push Back

Several EU states are resisting the 2023 Migration Pact’s relocation mechanism ahead of its 2026 rollout, opting to send funds or staff instead of accepting relocated asylum seekers. Poland has publicly claimed an exemption, a move analysts warn could undermine the common EU asylum system and risk internal Schengen controls or pushbacks. The clash is intensifying ahead of late-2025/2026 elections as immigration dominates voter concerns and bolsters right-wing parties. The episode reflects a broader EU shift toward stricter, externalized migration management.