In September 2025, the Hajnówka court made headlines by acquitting the so-called "Hajnówka five," a group of activists who had been accused of providing assistance to migrants who illegally crossed the Polish-Belarusian border. The case garnered significant attention from human rights organizations and the Polish Bar Council, who referred to it as one of the most prominent examples of the criminalization of humanitarian efforts in Poland. Activists argued that their intentions were purely humanitarian, as they provided food, water, clothing, and shelter to a family from Iraq with seven children and an Egyptian, rather than acting as smugglers.

The court's ruling underscored the absence of evidence that the activists had received any financial compensation for their actions. The activists were initially arrested while transporting migrants covered with blankets, explaining that they intended to take them to the Border Guard so they could apply for international protection. This defense highlighted the challenges faced by those offering humanitarian aid at borders, where legal considerations often overshadow the needs of vulnerable populations.

The outcome of the trial represents a significant victory for those advocating for humanitarian actions within Poland, sparking discussions about the legal environment surrounding migration and the responsibilities of individuals who wish to assist migrants in need. The implications of this case extend beyond Hajnówka, potentially influencing future cases related to migrant assistance in the region, and it reflects a broader trend of questioning laws that criminalize humanitarian support in crisis situations.