Beyond the Headlines: Is Belarus using migrants to get back at the EU?


James Haines-Young
  • English
  • Arabic

As winter approaches, thousands of refugees and migrants are stranded at the Belarus-Poland border. From young children to the elderly, all wrapped up as best they can be to cope with the deteriorating conditions as they wait for sanctuary in the European Union before the weather worsens.

Some are chopping down trees in the forest to make fires for heat. At least 10 have already died in these freezing conditions. But the worst of the winter is still ahead of them.

But this is no ordinary case of refugees seeking asylum. Accusations from the EU are that Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko is using these people as pawns to put pressure on the bloc. Lukashenko denies this claim.

On this week's Beyond the Headlines, we look at how thousands of people have become caught up in the crossfire of European power politics.

Mountain Classification Tour de France after Stage 8 on Saturday: 

  • 1. Lilian Calmejane (France / Direct Energie) 11
  • 2. Fabio Aru (Italy / Astana) 10
  • 3. Daniel Martin (Ireland / Quick-Step) 8
  • 4. Robert Gesink (Netherlands / LottoNL) 8
  • 5. Warren Barguil (France / Sunweb) 7
  • 6. Chris Froome (Britain / Team Sky) 6
  • 7. Guillaume Martin (France / Wanty) 6
  • 8. Jan Bakelants (Belgium / AG2R) 5
  • 9. Serge Pauwels (Belgium / Dimension Data) 5
  • 10. Richie Porte (Australia / BMC Racing) 4

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Inter Milan 2 (Vecino 65', Barella 83')

Verona 1 (Verre 19' pen)

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Labour dispute

The insured employee may still file an ILOE claim even if a labour dispute is ongoing post termination, but the insurer may suspend or reject payment, until the courts resolve the dispute, especially if the reason for termination is contested. The outcome of the labour court proceedings can directly affect eligibility.


- Abdullah Ishnaneh, Partner, BSA Law 

Updated: November 21, 2021, 8:03 AM
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