Effort to Simplify Repatriation for Poles in Russia and Belarus: A New Law Proposal

Effort to Simplify Repatriation for Poles in Russia and Belarus: A New Law Proposal

Plans for a New Repatriation Law Unveiled

In a recent development, Polish Senator Grzegorz Bierecki has unveiled plans for a new legislation aimed at simplifying the process of repatriation for Poles residing in Russia and Belarus. The announcement was made during an event in Biała Podlaska. Bierecki, a member of the ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party, called out the current procedure for being excessively complicated and suggested that the Poles should not be repatriated but evacuated from these regions.

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Current Repatriation Law Criticized

The existing law, enacted in 2000, permits only about 700 individuals to relocate to Poland annually. However, Bierecki highlighted that there are currently over 7,000 individuals awaiting repatriation, revealing a significant gap between the law’s capacity and the actual need. As per the existing law, repatriation is executed as a task by the local government, supported by the central budget. The process necessitates a resolution from the municipal council for repatriation to take place.

Population of Poles in Russia and Belarus

According to Bierecki, approximately 170,000 Poles are presently living in Russia and an additional 295,000 in Belarus. These figures underline the magnitude of the repatriation challenge and the necessity for streamlined procedures. The senator emphasized the moral responsibility to ease their suffering, stating, “These are our brothers, our compatriots. Their suffering weighs on our conscience. Poles in the East should not be repatriated, they should be evacuated.”

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The New Law Proposal and Its Implications

The current repatriation procedure is perceived as overly complicated, and the proposed changes aim to augment the number of people who can move to Poland each year. The proposed law, if enacted, will undoubtedly have significant implications for Poles living in Russia and Belarus, potentially allowing them to return to their homeland more easily.

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A Moral Obligation Towards Compatriots

The emphasis placed on the moral obligation to aid those in need is particularly notable. This sentiment echoes through the proposal and highlights the commitment of the Polish government to support its citizens, regardless of their geographical location. The proposed law, it could be argued, is not just a legislative change, but also a statement of solidarity and compassion towards Poles residing in Russia and Belarus.