Polish opposition leader Jarosław Kaczyński has called for a march in Warsaw on October 11 to protest against the EU’s migration pact and the Mercosur free trade agreement.
March Against Migration Pact and Mercosur Deal
Kaczyński, the leader of the Law and Justice party (PiS), announced the march during a speech, stating it would serve to prevent the most significant dangers, including those related to war and non-war threats. The march aims to protest against the forced relocation of illegal immigrants to Poland, the migration pact, and the Mercosur deal.
Background on the Mercosur Deal
The European Commission approved the free trade agreement with Mercosur countries (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay) in early September. The deal needs to be approved by the European Parliament and at least 15 EU member states in the EU Council. The agreement has sparked mixed reactions, with the European industry welcoming it and EU farmers, particularly those from France and Poland, expressing concerns.
Impact of the Mercosur Deal
The deal is expected to increase the EU’s annual exports to Mercosur countries by 39% and reduce tariffs on key industrial products such as cars and pharmaceuticals. Despite Poland’s opposition, it is likely that the agreement will be approved, as most countries support it, and France and Italy have also expressed their backing.
