Green Party Leader Zack Polanski Says Open Borders Not Pragmatic Now
In a Sky News exclusive interview from Calais in December 2025, Green Party leader Zack Polanski stated that open borders are not a pragmatic policy at this time and are not part of the Greens' current manifesto. He noted that critics often use the idea of open borders as an attack line against the party.
Polanski explained that the party's manifesto instead calls for ending the hostile environment, expanding safe and legal routes for migrants, and abolishing the Home Office in favor of a newly formed department of migration. He described open borders as a concept requiring massive international cooperation and agreements, labeling it a long-range vision rather than current policy.
Polanski supports allowing asylum seekers to work in Britain and highlights the importance of training British workers. He referenced ongoing NHS vacancies of around 100,000 and noted that one in five care workers are foreign nationals, underlining migration’s role in these sectors.
During his visit to Calais with volunteers and charities, Polanski aimed to witness migrant arrivals firsthand and counter misinformation. He advocates for a compassionate, fair, and managed response to the small boats crisis.
Addressing previous remarks about care workers made on Question Time, Polanski defended his comments by emphasizing his gratitude for their work and the importance of context, declining to apologize despite cross-party criticism. Having led the Green Party since September, he has overseen a rise in party support to double digits in polls.
