Polish Interior Ministry Official: Bąkiewicz Must Obey German Law in Berlin
Following the detention of Robert Bąkiewicz and his “Border Defense Movement” members in Berlin on Tuesday, a Polish deputy interior minister stated that activists must respect the laws...
Following the detention of Robert Bąkiewicz and his “Border Defense Movement” members in Berlin on Tuesday, a Polish deputy interior minister stated that activists must respect the laws of the country they visit.
Table Of Content
The Incident at the Memorial
On Tuesday, June 16, roughly 15 members of the informal “Border Defense Movement” (ROG) gathered near the Bundestag in Berlin wearing yellow vests. They attempted to march toward a temporary memorial for Polish victims of World War II while carrying a large wooden cross and banners.
Berlin police stated that the procession was unauthorized. Although the group was offered an alternative location at a nearby sculpture park or encouraged to approach the memorial individually, they marched as a group. Police intervened, temporarily detaining six individuals—including leader Robert Bąkiewicz—after they resisted efforts to halt the demonstration.
Official Reactions and Legal Standing
Deputy Minister of Interior and Administration Czesław Szczepański commented that the group had been informed by German authorities about the restrictions on their demonstration. He emphasized that Bąkiewicz is subject to German law while in Germany and must adhere to it.
In Warsaw, the incident sparked political activity, with supporters and some PiS politicians calling for intervention. Marcin Przydacz, head of the President’s Office for International Policy, urged Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski to provide political support for the Polish citizens involved.
Bąkiewicz’s Background and Legal Troubles
Robert Bąkiewicz, former head of the Independence March Association, has faced significant financial and legal challenges in recent years. Court rulings include a conviction for violating the bodily integrity of an activist during abortion protests, for which he received a partial pardon from President Andrzej Duda in 2025.
Following his failed bid for a parliamentary seat with PiS, Bąkiewicz shifted his focus to the “Border Defense Movement.” He currently faces ongoing legal proceedings, including charges related to public incitement against Prime Minister Donald Tusk.