The migration phenomenon in the context of the principle of state sovereignty: selected issues

The phenomenon of migration on a scale previously unknown after World War II shocked the countries belonging to the European Union. The surge of people seeking protection from persecution, better jobs, educational opportunities, and a desire to be reunited with families already living in the EU has led governments to consider fundamental issues. One of them was the principle of sovereignty and its impact on governments’ compliance with accepted international obligations. In many discussions, in my opinion, there was an erroneous juxtaposition of the idea of human rights with the principle of sovereignty, which led to an increase in nationalist sentiments and an escalation of hate speech against foreigners. This article aims to explain the key differences between the concepts of migrant and foreigner, the essence of the principle of sovereignty and its consequences, and the influence of the European Union on the traditional understanding of the state.