A rising number of local residents in the 18th arrondissement of Paris, particularly near the Jardins d’Éole, have voiced their concerns over the potential influx of new arrivals, driven by recent waves of migrants landing on Italian shores. Residents have reported feelings of insecurity, citing instances of civil disorder and organized crime, including drug trafficking, involving some newcomers in their neighborhoods.
One resident shared, “We don’t feel safe,” while another expressed fear and intimidation due to the presence of groups of adult males in the area. This sentiment is mirrored by local politicians who have criticized the degradation of Parisian streets, with new arrivals resorting to sleeping rough and creating makeshift settlements, overwhelming social services.
Pierre Liscia, regional councilor for Île-de-France, highlighted the prevalence of clashes, alcoholism, and drug addiction in affected neighborhoods, along with the presence of crack trafficking networks. Other elected officials are advocating for urgent measures to relocate newcomers to secure accommodations, aiming to restore safety and cleanliness to the affected areas.
The European Union is currently in discussions regarding asylum reforms, aiming to prevent migrants from entering the bloc and freely traveling to more prosperous nations. The EU migration pact entails member countries taking responsibility for receiving newcomers, with potential financial penalties for non-compliance. However, Hungary and Poland have staunchly opposed the pact, asserting that it infringes on their national sovereignty.
Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki of Poland emphasized his government’s steadfast stance against the EU’s asylum proposals, expressing the nation’s reluctance to experience a situation akin to that of Lampedusa. As Poland approaches its election, Morawiecki reiterated the government’s commitment to border security, criticizing the liberal opposition’s willingness to endorse Brussels’ plan.
The situation highlights a critical juncture in how Polish sovereignty and borders are regarded, with border security becoming a focal point of political discourse.
