SOLDIERS AGAINST REFUGEES IN CZECHIA?

FECL 12 (February 1993)

In the event of a massive influx of refugees viewed as "economic" from Eastern Europe, the Czech government will send military units to its common borders with Slovakia in order to prevent illegal entries. This was announced by the Czech Minister of Defence, Antonin Baudys.

According to official sources, more than 150'000 migrants were staying illegally in former Czechoslovakia last autnumn. Most of them came from the former Soviet Union and viewed Poland, Czechia and Slovakia as mere intermediate stations on their journey to the West.

Defence Minister Baudys further announced Czechia's intention to build up a professional army.

Source: Die Presse, 5/6.1.93