The Migrants in the Ancient Forest

The New Yorker

by Elizabeth Flock

February 23, 2026

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The Migrants in the Ancient Forest: A perilous journey through Europe’s last primeval woodland In a remote corner of Poland and Belarus lies the Białowieża Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its untouched old-growth trees and rich biodiversity. Yet, this ancient forest has become an unexpected route for migrants fleeing conflict zones like Somalia, Iraq, and Syria. These individuals risk their lives to cross into Europe through one of the most heavily fortified borders in the world. Ahmed, a 19-year-old Somali refugee, shares his harrowing experience. After losing his father to Al Shabab, he paid smugglers to bring him from Mogadishu to Belarus, where he attempted to scale an 18-foot steel wall topped with concertina wire. Despite the dangers, thousands of migrants continue this journey, encountering wild animals and hostile locals while evading border guards. The situation is fueled by Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko’s deliberate strategy to divert migration flows toward Europe. By promoting travel packages on social media, the regime has effectively turned the forest into a testing ground for EU policies. Poland, in response, has suspended asylum rights for most migrants, leaving many with no choice but to endure the treacherous journey or face deportation back to conflict zones. This story highlights the intersection of migration, politics, and environmental preservation. The Białowieża Forest, once a symbol of natural beauty, now serves as a backdrop to human resilience and desperation. For readers interested in cultural and political dynamics, this narrative underscores the complexities of modern migration and the lengths people will go to seek safety and opportunity.

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Originally published on The New Yorker on 2/23/2026