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Clashes at border with Serbia as Croatia says it cannot take more refugees – live Clashes at border with Serbia as Croatia says it cannot take more refugees – live
(35 minutes later)
3.13pm BST15:13
AJ+ is periscoping from Tovarnik.
LIVE on #Periscope: Chaos in Croatian border town of Tovarnik as refugees try to continue journey https://t.co/vSRcAH8JLb
3.12pm BST15:12
Summary
Here’s a summary of the latest developments:
3.07pm BST15:07
The European Council president, Donald Tusk, has summoned EU leaders to an extraordinary summit on Wednesday to discuss migration and a proposed scheme to redistribute 120,000 asylum seekers across the 28-nation bloc.
Tusk said in a tweet on Thursday that he had convened a summit on Wednesday from 6pm CET (5pm GMT) to deal with the refugee crisis.
Ministers are due to revisit the mandatory relocation plan, which EU interior ministers failed to agree on Monday, at an emergency meeting on Tuesday after the European Parliament endorsed it on Thursday, with diplomats keen to avoid a new failure.
Hungary, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Romania and Poland, all former communist countries that joined the EU a decade ago, are the main opponents of compulsory quotas, arguing that they would draw more migrants to Europe and disrupt their societies, which are not accustomed to large-scale immigration.
2.52pm BST14:52
Sky News is reporting that things are now calmer in Tovarnik, Croatia, where refugees clashed with police stationed at the border with Serbia.
Sky’s correspondent said: “Everyone has gone through.”
2.45pm BST14:45
Croatia’s Interior Minister Ranko Ostojic appears to be rowing back on Croatia’s pledge to grant refugees free passage through Croatia.
He said anyone not seeking asylum there would be considered an illegal migrant. He said his country cannot accept any more people.
In the last couple of days some 7,300 have arrived in Croatia. That is almost three times the amount that arrived in the whole of last year.
Dosad je u RH ušlo 7300 #izbjeglice. Osim u Tovarniku, Iloku, Batini, sada ulaze i na granični prijelaz Bajakovo http://t.co/V4pz6M2k9H
2.35pm BST14:352.35pm BST14:35
Refugees have also broken through police lines in the Croatia border town of Batina. Footage from Sky News showed hundreds of people overwhelming police numbers to cross the border from the Serbia to Croatia.Refugees have also broken through police lines in the Croatia border town of Batina. Footage from Sky News showed hundreds of people overwhelming police numbers to cross the border from the Serbia to Croatia.
2.25pm BST14:252.25pm BST14:25
Live footage from Tovarnik shows refugees clashing with Croatian police after scores of people broke through police lines.Live footage from Tovarnik shows refugees clashing with Croatian police after scores of people broke through police lines.
There are reports of some people collapsing in the rush.There are reports of some people collapsing in the rush.
A man collapses as he's shoved thru crush. Refugees and migrants have now broken through police lines @Channel4News pic.twitter.com/OuIYTRTPdwA man collapses as he's shoved thru crush. Refugees and migrants have now broken through police lines @Channel4News pic.twitter.com/OuIYTRTPdw
#Refugees #Migrants Crowd breaches cordon. Mayhem now.#Refugees #Migrants Crowd breaches cordon. Mayhem now.
A woman collapses in the heat at #Tovarnik station.Migrants have spent hours behind police lines,waiting for buses pic.twitter.com/iK9p9hyo47A woman collapses in the heat at #Tovarnik station.Migrants have spent hours behind police lines,waiting for buses pic.twitter.com/iK9p9hyo47
2.20pm BST14:202.20pm BST14:20
Croatia’s interior ministry has confirmed that refugees were stopped by police from walking along the railway tracks, after a group of around 500 people started to march towards Zagreb from the crowded Tovarnik station.Croatia’s interior ministry has confirmed that refugees were stopped by police from walking along the railway tracks, after a group of around 500 people started to march towards Zagreb from the crowded Tovarnik station.
Extra buses have been put on to take people to the capital, it said.Extra buses have been put on to take people to the capital, it said.
Fights have broken out at the scene.Fights have broken out at the scene.
Fights breaking out in Tavernik as police struggle control desperate situation. Mayhem in the EU @Channel4News pic.twitter.com/JcVkH0oeHzFights breaking out in Tavernik as police struggle control desperate situation. Mayhem in the EU @Channel4News pic.twitter.com/JcVkH0oeHz
2.08pm BST14:082.08pm BST14:08
Croatia says it cannot take any more migrantsCroatia says it cannot take any more migrants
Croatia Interior Minister tells @Channel4News "We are absolutely full." He's told UNHCR 'it's your problem' pic.twitter.com/zOiAn6Ev6oCroatia Interior Minister tells @Channel4News "We are absolutely full." He's told UNHCR 'it's your problem' pic.twitter.com/zOiAn6Ev6o
There are reports of a standoff between Croatian police and refugees stranded at Croatia’s Tovarnik rail station as the Croatian government said it was struggling to cope with the numbers.There are reports of a standoff between Croatian police and refugees stranded at Croatia’s Tovarnik rail station as the Croatian government said it was struggling to cope with the numbers.
#refugees #migrants chaotic scenes as crowd tries to push thru riot police#refugees #migrants chaotic scenes as crowd tries to push thru riot police
#Refugees #Migrants angry standoff at Tvornik rail station pic.twitter.com/7AzaYAmoaX#Refugees #Migrants angry standoff at Tvornik rail station pic.twitter.com/7AzaYAmoaX
Updated at 2.19pm BSTUpdated at 2.19pm BST
1.45pm BST13:451.45pm BST13:45
Patrick KingsleyPatrick Kingsley
Less than a day after frustrated refugees clashed with Hungarian police on the Serbo-Hungarian border, the scene here at Horgoš is almost back to normal, writes Patrick Kingsley.Less than a day after frustrated refugees clashed with Hungarian police on the Serbo-Hungarian border, the scene here at Horgoš is almost back to normal, writes Patrick Kingsley.
Serbian officials are in the final stages of bussing people towards the Croatian border to the west – raising questions about why they did not do so sooner, instead of letting people stew at the gates of Hungary.Serbian officials are in the final stages of bussing people towards the Croatian border to the west – raising questions about why they did not do so sooner, instead of letting people stew at the gates of Hungary.
A group of young Kurdish students are among the last few still waiting for a bus at Horgoš. They say they’re taking a punt – Croatia, despite welcoming words from its politicians, is an unknown. “We just have to have faith,” said Nowar Daoud, a 23-year-old archaeology student from Hasaka. “We’ll go and find out what’s happening. Maybe we can cross, maybe we can’t. We live in hope.”A group of young Kurdish students are among the last few still waiting for a bus at Horgoš. They say they’re taking a punt – Croatia, despite welcoming words from its politicians, is an unknown. “We just have to have faith,” said Nowar Daoud, a 23-year-old archaeology student from Hasaka. “We’ll go and find out what’s happening. Maybe we can cross, maybe we can’t. We live in hope.”
But as in every conversation on this refugee route, Daoud and his friends say that ultimately nothing will stop people fleeing from war. Hamas Shekhmous, an 18-year-old high school student travelling with her two brothers, said: “We’re not afraid of anything because after Daesh” – the Arab slang term for Islamic State – “nothing scares us.”But as in every conversation on this refugee route, Daoud and his friends say that ultimately nothing will stop people fleeing from war. Hamas Shekhmous, an 18-year-old high school student travelling with her two brothers, said: “We’re not afraid of anything because after Daesh” – the Arab slang term for Islamic State – “nothing scares us.”
But a smattering of people are a little more circumspect. Kawa, a 30-year-old agricultural engineer from north-eastern Syria, reckoned it was better to wait it out at the Hungarian border until he got word that the Croatian route works. “After Croatia is Slovenia,” Kawa said. “And we don’t know what Slovenia will do.”But a smattering of people are a little more circumspect. Kawa, a 30-year-old agricultural engineer from north-eastern Syria, reckoned it was better to wait it out at the Hungarian border until he got word that the Croatian route works. “After Croatia is Slovenia,” Kawa said. “And we don’t know what Slovenia will do.”
1.40pm BST13:401.40pm BST13:40
The former England football captain Sir Bobby Charlton and founder of the landmine research charity Find A Better Way, has added his voice to concerns about refugees straying into minefields in their search for ways round border restrictions in Balkans.The former England football captain Sir Bobby Charlton and founder of the landmine research charity Find A Better Way, has added his voice to concerns about refugees straying into minefields in their search for ways round border restrictions in Balkans.
In a statement Charlton said:In a statement Charlton said:
I was very concerned to hear the news about the danger for migrants crossing the Croatian border. From my recent visit to Croatia and the Croatian Mine Action Center I am only too aware of the very real danger and threat that landmines pose across the country, particularly at its borders.I was very concerned to hear the news about the danger for migrants crossing the Croatian border. From my recent visit to Croatia and the Croatian Mine Action Center I am only too aware of the very real danger and threat that landmines pose across the country, particularly at its borders.
CROMAC estimates that Croatia is contaminated with over 50,000 mines left from conflict, across a large suspected area of 195.3 square miles. It is incredibly harrowing that innocent migrants and refugees who are fleeing conflict now face imminent threats from these weapons of war at Croatia’s borders.CROMAC estimates that Croatia is contaminated with over 50,000 mines left from conflict, across a large suspected area of 195.3 square miles. It is incredibly harrowing that innocent migrants and refugees who are fleeing conflict now face imminent threats from these weapons of war at Croatia’s borders.
Find A Better Way funds the research to improve detection methods to find landmines.Find A Better Way funds the research to improve detection methods to find landmines.
Thousands of migrants are gathering in Tovarnik railway station only a few kilometres from the nearest minefield left over from the war in Croatia in the 1990s (see earlier).Thousands of migrants are gathering in Tovarnik railway station only a few kilometres from the nearest minefield left over from the war in Croatia in the 1990s (see earlier).
1.26pm BST13:261.26pm BST13:26
Slovenia reintroduces border controls with HungarySlovenia reintroduces border controls with Hungary
Slovenia has become the latest European country to reintroduce border controls. It informed the European Commission that from today its border with Hungary will be closed for at least 10 days.Slovenia has become the latest European country to reintroduce border controls. It informed the European Commission that from today its border with Hungary will be closed for at least 10 days.
The Commission said the move did not flout the Schengen agreement as the controls were introduce due to the “serious threat to public policy or internal security”.The Commission said the move did not flout the Schengen agreement as the controls were introduce due to the “serious threat to public policy or internal security”.
The current situation in Slovenia, prima facie, appears to be a situation covered by the rules.The current situation in Slovenia, prima facie, appears to be a situation covered by the rules.
The measures taken by Slovenia today, like those taken by Germany on 13 September and Austria on 15 September, are temporary in nature.The measures taken by Slovenia today, like those taken by Germany on 13 September and Austria on 15 September, are temporary in nature.
The situation serves to further underscore the pressing need to agree on and quickly implement the measures proposed by the European Commission in order to manage the refugee crisis.The situation serves to further underscore the pressing need to agree on and quickly implement the measures proposed by the European Commission in order to manage the refugee crisis.
Earlier today the European Parliament backed a binding quota system for resettling 120,000 refugee. The move will put pressure on support on the Justice and Home Affairs Council which failed to agree on the proposals at a meeting of European interior ministers on Monday.Earlier today the European Parliament backed a binding quota system for resettling 120,000 refugee. The move will put pressure on support on the Justice and Home Affairs Council which failed to agree on the proposals at a meeting of European interior ministers on Monday.
1.10pm BST13:101.10pm BST13:10
Angelique ChrisafisAngelique Chrisafis
French authorities have evicted more than 600 refugees and migrants who had been sleeping rough in two camps of tents near Paris’s Austerlitz station and the town-hall of the 18th arrondissement, writes Angelique Chrisafis in Paris.French authorities have evicted more than 600 refugees and migrants who had been sleeping rough in two camps of tents near Paris’s Austerlitz station and the town-hall of the 18th arrondissement, writes Angelique Chrisafis in Paris.
The evictions by plain clothes police took place before dawn when people were put on coaches with reassurances of temporary accommodation in centres in and around Paris. Hundreds of people, including from Sudan and Eritrea, had been sleeping rough in Paris for months following the clearing of tents near La Chapelle earlier this summer.The evictions by plain clothes police took place before dawn when people were put on coaches with reassurances of temporary accommodation in centres in and around Paris. Hundreds of people, including from Sudan and Eritrea, had been sleeping rough in Paris for months following the clearing of tents near La Chapelle earlier this summer.
But hundreds more people are still sheltering in fetid and insanitary conditions in a four-storey abandoned high-school building in the north of the city, the Lycée Jean-Quarré, where health problems such as diarrhea and scabies are rife.But hundreds more people are still sheltering in fetid and insanitary conditions in a four-storey abandoned high-school building in the north of the city, the Lycée Jean-Quarré, where health problems such as diarrhea and scabies are rife.
12.34pm BST12:3412.34pm BST12:34
Tension continues to rise at Tovarnik railway station at Croatia’s border with Serbia, according to reporters at the scene.Tension continues to rise at Tovarnik railway station at Croatia’s border with Serbia, according to reporters at the scene.
Associated Press reporters at the scene say migrants have become restless, demanding to move on. Croatian authorities have been distributing food and water as they cope with the migrant wave entering the country over the Serbian border.Associated Press reporters at the scene say migrants have become restless, demanding to move on. Croatian authorities have been distributing food and water as they cope with the migrant wave entering the country over the Serbian border.
It's now 12 hours since last train out of Tovarnik, Croatia. There are at least 5,000 here and first buses from Serbia will arrive soon.It's now 12 hours since last train out of Tovarnik, Croatia. There are at least 5,000 here and first buses from Serbia will arrive soon.
12.22pm BST12:2212.22pm BST12:22
Frustrated refugees waiting for trains at Tovarnik are threatening to walk along the tracks to get to the Croatian capital Zagreb, according to the BBC’s Fergal Keane.Frustrated refugees waiting for trains at Tovarnik are threatening to walk along the tracks to get to the Croatian capital Zagreb, according to the BBC’s Fergal Keane.
#Refugees #Migrants Station Croatia video pic.twitter.com/BTY0EiCHbz#Refugees #Migrants Station Croatia video pic.twitter.com/BTY0EiCHbz
12.17pm BST12:1712.17pm BST12:17
Thousands of refugees are gathering about 12km away from a minefield left over from the Croatian war, according to maps circulated by anti-landmine campaigners.Thousands of refugees are gathering about 12km away from a minefield left over from the Croatian war, according to maps circulated by anti-landmine campaigners.
Tovarnik station is close to an area to the west, marked in red on the map, which is known to contain mines from the conflict. There is also another minefield close to Croatia border with Serbia.Tovarnik station is close to an area to the west, marked in red on the map, which is known to contain mines from the conflict. There is also another minefield close to Croatia border with Serbia.
Earlier the International Campaign to Ban Landmines said the danger of mines near the border area worsened an already precarious situation facing refugees.Earlier the International Campaign to Ban Landmines said the danger of mines near the border area worsened an already precarious situation facing refugees.
In an email to the Guardian its director Megan Burke said: “We are very concerned about the situation of Syrian refugees and the many risks that they face as they try to find a secure place where they can be. Landmines in Croatia are of course a very big risk and yet another reminder as to why landmines have been banned.”In an email to the Guardian its director Megan Burke said: “We are very concerned about the situation of Syrian refugees and the many risks that they face as they try to find a secure place where they can be. Landmines in Croatia are of course a very big risk and yet another reminder as to why landmines have been banned.”
She highlighted maps showing the danger areas that refugees should avoid.She highlighted maps showing the danger areas that refugees should avoid.
Regional refugee groups in Serbia have been disseminating maps to refugees, she said.Regional refugee groups in Serbia have been disseminating maps to refugees, she said.
Burke warned refugees to avoid straying from main routes. She said:Burke warned refugees to avoid straying from main routes. She said:
For refugees themselves, simple information such as the importance of staying on main roads and official border crossing roads and what to look out for regarding mine warning signs will be helpful for people who really don’t know the areas at all, even more perhaps than trying to navigate around the possibly dangerous places. Croatia has had a responsibility to mark all known mined areas under their obligations to the Mine Ban Treaty.For refugees themselves, simple information such as the importance of staying on main roads and official border crossing roads and what to look out for regarding mine warning signs will be helpful for people who really don’t know the areas at all, even more perhaps than trying to navigate around the possibly dangerous places. Croatia has had a responsibility to mark all known mined areas under their obligations to the Mine Ban Treaty.
The Croatian Mine Action Centre has sent deminers to border areas where there might be a risk.The Croatian Mine Action Centre has sent deminers to border areas where there might be a risk.
Updated at 12.23pm BSTUpdated at 12.23pm BST
11.51am BST11:5111.51am BST11:51
Hungary claims its police used forced at the border on Wednesday after being attacked by a mob directed by a “terrorist”. AP reports.Hungary claims its police used forced at the border on Wednesday after being attacked by a mob directed by a “terrorist”. AP reports.
Government spokesman Zoltan Kovacs said Thursday that the unidentified Syrian man was “one of the organizers who specifically directed the attacks” .Government spokesman Zoltan Kovacs said Thursday that the unidentified Syrian man was “one of the organizers who specifically directed the attacks” .
Police detained 22 people who managed to break through, including the man who Kovacs said was suspected of “carrying out of an act of terrorism.”Police detained 22 people who managed to break through, including the man who Kovacs said was suspected of “carrying out of an act of terrorism.”
The migrants were repelled with tear gas and water cannons and police used batons to drive back those trying to enter Hungary.The migrants were repelled with tear gas and water cannons and police used batons to drive back those trying to enter Hungary.
11.38am BST11:3811.38am BST11:38
Stephanie KirchgaessnerStephanie Kirchgaessner
Rightwing lawmakers in the northern Italian region of Lombardy are cracking down on hotel owners who have hosted migrants, writes Stephanie Kirchgaessner.Rightwing lawmakers in the northern Italian region of Lombardy are cracking down on hotel owners who have hosted migrants, writes Stephanie Kirchgaessner.
The move is the latest effort by the Northern League to discourage asylum-seekers from settling there.The move is the latest effort by the Northern League to discourage asylum-seekers from settling there.
Lombardy’s regional council passed an amendment on Wednesday (41-29) that would bar any hotel that has voluntarily hosted migrants over the last three years from receiving regional funds or participating in local tenders.Lombardy’s regional council passed an amendment on Wednesday (41-29) that would bar any hotel that has voluntarily hosted migrants over the last three years from receiving regional funds or participating in local tenders.
The measure was seen as a compromise after the Northern League, the rightwing party headed by Matteo Salvini, initially proposed that the hotels ought to be fined between 5,000 to 10,000 euros and see their licenses suspended for six months to a year.The measure was seen as a compromise after the Northern League, the rightwing party headed by Matteo Salvini, initially proposed that the hotels ought to be fined between 5,000 to 10,000 euros and see their licenses suspended for six months to a year.
11.35am BST11:3511.35am BST11:35
Ben KnightBen Knight
Germany’s federal police reported 7,266 “unpermitted border crossings” in 24 hours on Wednesday, twice as many as the day before, with most coming across the Austrian border, writes Ben Knight in Berlin.Germany’s federal police reported 7,266 “unpermitted border crossings” in 24 hours on Wednesday, twice as many as the day before, with most coming across the Austrian border, writes Ben Knight in Berlin.
The police also counted an additional 4,600 refugees waiting to be allowed into Germany on the Austrian side of the border.The police also counted an additional 4,600 refugees waiting to be allowed into Germany on the Austrian side of the border.
There have been long tailbacks on roads between Germany and Austria as commuters are being held up at the new border controls. Refugees, meanwhile, are being filtered out, made to wait, and only let across into Germany in small groups.There have been long tailbacks on roads between Germany and Austria as commuters are being held up at the new border controls. Refugees, meanwhile, are being filtered out, made to wait, and only let across into Germany in small groups.
The Süddeutsche Zeitung reported that two groups of 700 refugees each were being held at a border bridge over the river Saalach, near the German town of Freilassing, waiting to be registered at collection points and then distributed throughout Germany.The Süddeutsche Zeitung reported that two groups of 700 refugees each were being held at a border bridge over the river Saalach, near the German town of Freilassing, waiting to be registered at collection points and then distributed throughout Germany.
Der Spiegel’s foreign affairs editor Raniah Salloum pointed out that reintroduced border controls appear fairly lax.Der Spiegel’s foreign affairs editor Raniah Salloum pointed out that reintroduced border controls appear fairly lax.
German Federal Police: 7266 refugees entered Germany on Wednesday. Yes, people have started to figure out that border is not really closed.German Federal Police: 7266 refugees entered Germany on Wednesday. Yes, people have started to figure out that border is not really closed.
The German police also said it had arrested 18 suspected refugee traffickers in the past 24 hours, while Bavarian state premier Horst Seehofer has claimed that the German border controls have led to the capture of dozens of traffickers. He told the Passauer Neue Presse newspaper that 800 suspects were already in Bavarian custody.The German police also said it had arrested 18 suspected refugee traffickers in the past 24 hours, while Bavarian state premier Horst Seehofer has claimed that the German border controls have led to the capture of dozens of traffickers. He told the Passauer Neue Presse newspaper that 800 suspects were already in Bavarian custody.
Germany also strengthened controls on its borders with the Czech Republic on Wednesday and Thursday, where four suspected traffickers had been arrested since Wednesday, police said.Germany also strengthened controls on its borders with the Czech Republic on Wednesday and Thursday, where four suspected traffickers had been arrested since Wednesday, police said.
In a separate development, the head of Germany’s Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) Manfred Schmidt handed in his resignation on Thursday “for personal reasons”.In a separate development, the head of Germany’s Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) Manfred Schmidt handed in his resignation on Thursday “for personal reasons”.
The BAMF has been criticised in recent weeks for failing to keep up with the huge rise in asylum applications. German Interior Minister Thomas de Maizière, himself under increasing pressure for his handling of the crisis, said he regretted Schmidt’s decision.The BAMF has been criticised in recent weeks for failing to keep up with the huge rise in asylum applications. German Interior Minister Thomas de Maizière, himself under increasing pressure for his handling of the crisis, said he regretted Schmidt’s decision.
11.17am BST11:1711.17am BST11:17
Croatia’s Tovarnik station has become the latest hotspot in Europe’s escalating refugee crisis. Thousands of people have gathered there in the hope of reaching western Europe via Zagreb.Croatia’s Tovarnik station has become the latest hotspot in Europe’s escalating refugee crisis. Thousands of people have gathered there in the hope of reaching western Europe via Zagreb.
Local authorities in Tovarnik, have appealed for government help, according to AP.Local authorities in Tovarnik, have appealed for government help, according to AP.
At least 3000 #migrants at Tovarnik station waiting for special train to take them from Croatian border to Zagreb. pic.twitter.com/ZfIk5jZGNcAt least 3000 #migrants at Tovarnik station waiting for special train to take them from Croatian border to Zagreb. pic.twitter.com/ZfIk5jZGNc
5,000 people at tiny Tovarnik station in Croatia, gov must act fast to stop this turning into same chaos as Hungary pic.twitter.com/Lt1J7W4sls5,000 people at tiny Tovarnik station in Croatia, gov must act fast to stop this turning into same chaos as Hungary pic.twitter.com/Lt1J7W4sls
11.06am BST11:0611.06am BST11:06
Hungary has vowed to continue to forcefully defend its border and rejected criticism of its use of water cannon and teargas against refugees.Hungary has vowed to continue to forcefully defend its border and rejected criticism of its use of water cannon and teargas against refugees.
Hungarian government spokesman, Zoltan Kovacs, said its razor wire fence was protecting EU borders against illegal immigration and that other countries should put up similar barriers and be prepared to defend them.Hungarian government spokesman, Zoltan Kovacs, said its razor wire fence was protecting EU borders against illegal immigration and that other countries should put up similar barriers and be prepared to defend them.
Speaking at press conference he said: “Hungary is not going to just let people go through its territory and that’s what we’ve achieved. If everybody took care of their external borders, all European member states, especially those who have a Schengen border, the situation would be very different. That’s why we are calling for the Greek seas to be protected, if not by Greece, then by a joint European force that is able to stop illegal migration.”Speaking at press conference he said: “Hungary is not going to just let people go through its territory and that’s what we’ve achieved. If everybody took care of their external borders, all European member states, especially those who have a Schengen border, the situation would be very different. That’s why we are calling for the Greek seas to be protected, if not by Greece, then by a joint European force that is able to stop illegal migration.”
Kovacs added: “We don’t like the fence. But it seems to be working to protect the country’s borders, to stop illegal migration. Obviously we are going to continue with that - keeping the fence, protecting the fence by police. We can’t understand those messages that are coming from some European countries. Schengen’s freedoms cannot be protected from within [the European Union] it should be protected from the outside. That’s what we will do - to reinforce the external protection of European borders.”Kovacs added: “We don’t like the fence. But it seems to be working to protect the country’s borders, to stop illegal migration. Obviously we are going to continue with that - keeping the fence, protecting the fence by police. We can’t understand those messages that are coming from some European countries. Schengen’s freedoms cannot be protected from within [the European Union] it should be protected from the outside. That’s what we will do - to reinforce the external protection of European borders.”
10.42am BST10:4210.42am BST10:42
The number of people arriving in Croatia has climbed to 6,200, according to Croatia’s interior ministry, as more make the trek from the sealed Hungarian border.The number of people arriving in Croatia has climbed to 6,200, according to Croatia’s interior ministry, as more make the trek from the sealed Hungarian border.
Status #Horgos, 11:00 CEST: consolidating, 90% of #refugees left & moving to CRO, no new transfers. pic from 2 days pic.twitter.com/mMrhNh4W4bStatus #Horgos, 11:00 CEST: consolidating, 90% of #refugees left & moving to CRO, no new transfers. pic from 2 days pic.twitter.com/mMrhNh4W4b
10.35am BST10:3510.35am BST10:35
Journalists beaten and detainedJournalists beaten and detained
Three international journalists were among those beaten by the Hungarian police at the border on Wednesday, according to reports in the Hungarian media.Three international journalists were among those beaten by the Hungarian police at the border on Wednesday, according to reports in the Hungarian media.
Induxhu journalist Szabolcs Panyi names two of the journalist as an Australian citizen Warren Richardson and Polish reporter Jacek Tacik.Induxhu journalist Szabolcs Panyi names two of the journalist as an Australian citizen Warren Richardson and Polish reporter Jacek Tacik.
3 journos from #Slovakia, #Poland&#Australia were beaten by #Hungary-an police&detained for crossing the border http://t.co/6vhw8NUwNV 1/23 journos from #Slovakia, #Poland&#Australia were beaten by #Hungary-an police&detained for crossing the border http://t.co/6vhw8NUwNV 1/2
Foreign journalists detained by #Hungary-an police yesterday @#Roszke, pic by @jacektacik who got beaten too. Oh boy https://t.co/WqJ0HIkbIiForeign journalists detained by #Hungary-an police yesterday @#Roszke, pic by @jacektacik who got beaten too. Oh boy https://t.co/WqJ0HIkbIi
Warren Richardson was kicked on the head,a Polish journo also got wounded in his head @#Roszke by #Hungary-n police, Heti Valasz reports 2/2Warren Richardson was kicked on the head,a Polish journo also got wounded in his head @#Roszke by #Hungary-n police, Heti Valasz reports 2/2
10.23am BST10:2310.23am BST10:23
The aid agency Médecins Sans Frontières said at least one person was treated with plastic bullet wounds after Hungarian police used force to repel refugees at Hungary’s border with Serbia.The aid agency Médecins Sans Frontières said at least one person was treated with plastic bullet wounds after Hungarian police used force to repel refugees at Hungary’s border with Serbia.
It said MSF teams in Horgos, on the Serbian side of the border, treated one plastic bullet wound, 12 wounds caused by trying to scale the razor fence, and around 15 patients with eyes affected by tear gas.It said MSF teams in Horgos, on the Serbian side of the border, treated one plastic bullet wound, 12 wounds caused by trying to scale the razor fence, and around 15 patients with eyes affected by tear gas.
It said most of the people who had gathered at the Horgos border point have now left, but up to 1,000 remain.It said most of the people who had gathered at the Horgos border point have now left, but up to 1,000 remain.
Aurelie Ponthieu, MSF’s advisor on displacement, said: “Using such excessive force against vulnerable people to prevent them from seeking safety is a disgrace and utterly shameful.”Aurelie Ponthieu, MSF’s advisor on displacement, said: “Using such excessive force against vulnerable people to prevent them from seeking safety is a disgrace and utterly shameful.”
10.14am BST10:1410.14am BST10:14
The Guardian’s community team is looking for help from readers:The Guardian’s community team is looking for help from readers:
Calais Action, which began delivering donations to refugees in Calais in August, has been charting community efforts in support of refugees in the UK and Europe. It has produced a crowdsourced map of activities so far.Calais Action, which began delivering donations to refugees in Calais in August, has been charting community efforts in support of refugees in the UK and Europe. It has produced a crowdsourced map of activities so far.
With your help we’d like to build on this great mapping effort by documenting the spread of grassroots activity and help people discover what’s happening where they are. We’d also like to understand the spread of community activity and response from the public.With your help we’d like to build on this great mapping effort by documenting the spread of grassroots activity and help people discover what’s happening where they are. We’d also like to understand the spread of community activity and response from the public.
If you are organising an event, demonstration, collection of donations, drop-off of supplies or another activity in support of the refugees, let us know by adding it here.If you are organising an event, demonstration, collection of donations, drop-off of supplies or another activity in support of the refugees, let us know by adding it here.
10.12am BST10:1210.12am BST10:12
The EU migration commissioner Dimitris Avramopoulos has chastised Hungary for its response to the refugee crisis.The EU migration commissioner Dimitris Avramopoulos has chastised Hungary for its response to the refugee crisis.
On a visit to Hungary Avramopoulos suggested Hungary was on the wrong side of history. He said:On a visit to Hungary Avramopoulos suggested Hungary was on the wrong side of history. He said:
Walls are temporary solutions. You have seen yourself that this only serves to divert flows or escalate tensions. Violence is not the solution either.Walls are temporary solutions. You have seen yourself that this only serves to divert flows or escalate tensions. Violence is not the solution either.
The majority of people arriving in Europe are Syrians. They are people in genuine need of our protection. There is no wall you would not climb, no sea you would not cross if you are fleeing violence and terror.The majority of people arriving in Europe are Syrians. They are people in genuine need of our protection. There is no wall you would not climb, no sea you would not cross if you are fleeing violence and terror.
I believe we have a moral duty offer them protection. It is a duty inscribed in international and European laws. It is a duty grounded in our principles. For me personally this is also a Christian duty.I believe we have a moral duty offer them protection. It is a duty inscribed in international and European laws. It is a duty grounded in our principles. For me personally this is also a Christian duty.
The appeal I would make to you is to continue to work with us, with the European Union, to find common and lasting solutions.The appeal I would make to you is to continue to work with us, with the European Union, to find common and lasting solutions.
Let me be frank with you, this is not a problem that is going to go away any time soon.Let me be frank with you, this is not a problem that is going to go away any time soon.
Let’s make sure we are on the right side of history.Let’s make sure we are on the right side of history.
9.59am BST09:599.59am BST09:59
Constanze LetschConstanze Letsch
Turkish authorities have announced that hundreds of refugees who have set up camp on a main road at Edirne near the Greek border will be forcibly removed in three days if they refuse to leave.Turkish authorities have announced that hundreds of refugees who have set up camp on a main road at Edirne near the Greek border will be forcibly removed in three days if they refuse to leave.
Many others are holding out at Istanbul’s main bus station in the hope of reaching northern Europe by land rather than risk the perilous sea journey.Many others are holding out at Istanbul’s main bus station in the hope of reaching northern Europe by land rather than risk the perilous sea journey.
Bus services from the main terminal in Istanbul to cities on the Greek and Bulgarian borders were suspended last week, prompting several hundred refugees, most of them Syrians, to take to the road in an attempt to reach the European Union on foot.Bus services from the main terminal in Istanbul to cities on the Greek and Bulgarian borders were suspended last week, prompting several hundred refugees, most of them Syrians, to take to the road in an attempt to reach the European Union on foot.
Related: Turkey threatens to oust refugees camped near Greek borderRelated: Turkey threatens to oust refugees camped near Greek border
9.53am BST09:539.53am BST09:53
Alberto NardelliAlberto Nardelli
Danish prime minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen has offered to take another 1,000 refugees, writes Alberto Nardelli.Danish prime minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen has offered to take another 1,000 refugees, writes Alberto Nardelli.
Rasmussen also offered to provide 750m krone inadditional funding over the next two years.Rasmussen also offered to provide 750m krone inadditional funding over the next two years.
However, Denmark’s government said it maintains its right to opt out from the quota system proposed by the European Commission, which aims to relocate 120,000 refugees from Greece, Italy and Hungary on top of the previously proposed 40,000 from Greece and Italy.However, Denmark’s government said it maintains its right to opt out from the quota system proposed by the European Commission, which aims to relocate 120,000 refugees from Greece, Italy and Hungary on top of the previously proposed 40,000 from Greece and Italy.
Denmark is allowed to opt out from the plans along with Ireland and Britain. With Ireland expected to opt in, Britain would - de facto - remain the only EU member state not receiving refugees from within Europe in one way or the other.Denmark is allowed to opt out from the plans along with Ireland and Britain. With Ireland expected to opt in, Britain would - de facto - remain the only EU member state not receiving refugees from within Europe in one way or the other.
Instead, David Cameron has said that Britain will welcome 20,000 Syrian refugees from camps on the borders of Syria over the next five years.Instead, David Cameron has said that Britain will welcome 20,000 Syrian refugees from camps on the borders of Syria over the next five years.
Meanwhile the US announced earlier this week that it will accept 10,000 Syrian refugees in the next fiscal year.Meanwhile the US announced earlier this week that it will accept 10,000 Syrian refugees in the next fiscal year.
Related: How does UK refugee commitment compare with other countries?Related: How does UK refugee commitment compare with other countries?
9.48am BST09:489.48am BST09:48
Rail services between Austria and Hungary will resume in both directions on Friday, Austrian rail company OeBB has announced.Rail services between Austria and Hungary will resume in both directions on Friday, Austrian rail company OeBB has announced.
The link was suspended for a week to reduce the flow of migrants into the country from Hungary.The link was suspended for a week to reduce the flow of migrants into the country from Hungary.
9.35am BST09:359.35am BST09:35
Labour’s new leader Jeremy Corbyn said he would back the imposition of European quotas for the resettlement of refugees.Labour’s new leader Jeremy Corbyn said he would back the imposition of European quotas for the resettlement of refugees.
In an interview for Channel 4 News Corbyn said it was a “great mistake” of the UK government to opt out of the European refugee programme. “We should take our share,” Corbyn said.In an interview for Channel 4 News Corbyn said it was a “great mistake” of the UK government to opt out of the European refugee programme. “We should take our share,” Corbyn said.
9.19am BST09:199.19am BST09:19
Landmine warningLandmine warning
Campaigners against land mines have expressed concern about refugees straying onto minefields left over from the 1990s war in Croatia.Campaigners against land mines have expressed concern about refugees straying onto minefields left over from the 1990s war in Croatia.
The International Campaign to Ban Landmines said the danger of mines near the border area worsened an already precarious situation facing refugees.The International Campaign to Ban Landmines said the danger of mines near the border area worsened an already precarious situation facing refugees.
In an email to the Guardian its director Megan Burke said: “We are very concerned about the situation of Syrian refugees and the many risks that they face as they try to find a secure place where they can be. Landmines in Croatia are of course a very big risk and yet another reminder as to why landmines have been banned.”In an email to the Guardian its director Megan Burke said: “We are very concerned about the situation of Syrian refugees and the many risks that they face as they try to find a secure place where they can be. Landmines in Croatia are of course a very big risk and yet another reminder as to why landmines have been banned.”
She highlighted maps showing the danger areas that refugees should avoid.She highlighted maps showing the danger areas that refugees should avoid.
Regional refugee groups in Serbia have been disseminating maps to refugees, she said.Regional refugee groups in Serbia have been disseminating maps to refugees, she said.
Burke warned refugees to avoid straying from main routes. She said:Burke warned refugees to avoid straying from main routes. She said:
For refugees themselves, simple information such as the importance of staying on main roads and official border crossing roads and what to look out for regarding mine warning signs will be helpful for people who really don’t know the areas at all, even more perhaps than trying to navigate around the possibly dangerous places. Croatia has had a responsibility to mark all known mined areas under their obligations to the Mine Ban Treaty.For refugees themselves, simple information such as the importance of staying on main roads and official border crossing roads and what to look out for regarding mine warning signs will be helpful for people who really don’t know the areas at all, even more perhaps than trying to navigate around the possibly dangerous places. Croatia has had a responsibility to mark all known mined areas under their obligations to the Mine Ban Treaty.
The Croatian Mine Action Centre has sent deminers to border areas where there might be a risk.The Croatian Mine Action Centre has sent deminers to border areas where there might be a risk.
8.44am BST08:448.44am BST08:44
The UN’s refugee agency has ramped up its criticism of Hungary claiming its restrictions on asylum seekers flout international law and worsen an “already chaotic situation worse”.The UN’s refugee agency has ramped up its criticism of Hungary claiming its restrictions on asylum seekers flout international law and worsen an “already chaotic situation worse”.
In a statement it also condemned Hungary’s use of force at its border. It said:In a statement it also condemned Hungary’s use of force at its border. It said:
UNHCR was especially shocked and saddened to witness Syrian refugees, including families with children who have already suffered so much, being prevented from entering the EU with water cannons and tear gas.UNHCR was especially shocked and saddened to witness Syrian refugees, including families with children who have already suffered so much, being prevented from entering the EU with water cannons and tear gas.
The UN High Commissioner for Refugees, António Guterres, added:The UN High Commissioner for Refugees, António Guterres, added:
“UNHCR reiterates its call on the the Hungarian authorities to ensure unimpeded access for people in need of protection in line with its legal and moral obligations. States should manage their borders in a way that is consistent with International and EU Law, including guaranteeing the right to seek asylum.“UNHCR reiterates its call on the the Hungarian authorities to ensure unimpeded access for people in need of protection in line with its legal and moral obligations. States should manage their borders in a way that is consistent with International and EU Law, including guaranteeing the right to seek asylum.
“It is not a crime to cross a border to seek asylum.”“It is not a crime to cross a border to seek asylum.”
The scene of yesterday’s chaotic scenes, is reported to be calm this morning.The scene of yesterday’s chaotic scenes, is reported to be calm this morning.
#Serbian police watch over border with #Hungary early on Thursday morning. Calm around the makeshift camp at #Horgos pic.twitter.com/cgFKCoQLoC#Serbian police watch over border with #Hungary early on Thursday morning. Calm around the makeshift camp at #Horgos pic.twitter.com/cgFKCoQLoC
Not giving up: migrants and refugees wait at the one door at the border where Hungary accepts asylum requests pic.twitter.com/xA1caJAymXNot giving up: migrants and refugees wait at the one door at the border where Hungary accepts asylum requests pic.twitter.com/xA1caJAymX
8.21am BST08:218.21am BST08:21
Croatia’ interior ministry confirmed that 5,650 migrants have entered the country since Hungary imposed tough new border restrictions. It also said a special train service was put on to take migrants to a reception centre.Croatia’ interior ministry confirmed that 5,650 migrants have entered the country since Hungary imposed tough new border restrictions. It also said a special train service was put on to take migrants to a reception centre.
Croatian policemen helping the children board the train towards western Croatia #refugees #refugeescrisis pic.twitter.com/3XXpOLSLz1Croatian policemen helping the children board the train towards western Croatia #refugees #refugeescrisis pic.twitter.com/3XXpOLSLz1
AFP’s Eric Randolph reports chaotic scenes at Tovarnik railway station.AFP’s Eric Randolph reports chaotic scenes at Tovarnik railway station.
Chaos at Tovarnik station in Croatia this morning as 5,000 migrants arrive overnight. pic.twitter.com/1gwVP8JXBVChaos at Tovarnik station in Croatia this morning as 5,000 migrants arrive overnight. pic.twitter.com/1gwVP8JXBV
Meanwhile Hungary continues to report a sharp fall in the number of newcomers.Meanwhile Hungary continues to report a sharp fall in the number of newcomers.
On Monday more than 9,000 migrants entered Hungary. But since new laws were introduced on Tuesday only a few hundred have made it through, according to the latest figures from the Hungarian Police. On Wednesday only 277 migrants were recorded.On Monday more than 9,000 migrants entered Hungary. But since new laws were introduced on Tuesday only a few hundred have made it through, according to the latest figures from the Hungarian Police. On Wednesday only 277 migrants were recorded.
Updated at 8.29am BSTUpdated at 8.29am BST
8.06am BST08:068.06am BST08:06
SummarySummary
Welcome to our continuing live coverage of the refugee crisis as Hungary faces widespread condemnation for firing teargas and water cannon at people trying to cross its border.Welcome to our continuing live coverage of the refugee crisis as Hungary faces widespread condemnation for firing teargas and water cannon at people trying to cross its border.
Here’s a rundown of the latest developments.Here’s a rundown of the latest developments.
Updated at 8.07am BSTUpdated at 8.07am BST