The Struggle After the Election
The Polish parliamentary elections on October 15 marked a moment of hope for many observers. After eight years of illiberal governance under the Law and Justice party (PiS), signs pointed towards a potential restoration of liberal democracy. Despite the fact that PiS emerged as the largest party, they failed to secure a majority, paving the way for a coalition of conservative, liberal, and leftist parties, led by Donald Tusk, the former Prime Minister and President of the European Council.
Disappointing Developments
A year after the elections, the achievements of Tusk’s coalition appear disheartening, with results ranging from mixed to disappointing. Reflecting the struggles of anti-PiS opposition in recent years, new polls indicate that this coalition may soon lose its majority, potentially allowing PiS to regain power in alliance with the far-right Konfederacja party. This situation highlights a dangerous cyclical pattern in Polish politics dominated by the continuous rivalry between Tusk and Kaczyński, where electoral victories often swing back in favor of illiberal forces.
Echoes of Illiberal Policies
Rather than reversing PiS’s controversial policies, Tusk’s government seems to mirror them. Their strategy to attract PiS voters ahead of upcoming presidential elections raises concerns, as history suggests that emulating the far right often leads only to greater legitimization of those elements. Although Tusk’s administration has worked to enhance its reputation internationally, declaring Poland a “defender of the free world,” some recent moves, such as suspending the right to asylum, contradict EU principles and Poland’s own constitution.
Stagnation on Key Issues
The coalition has also failed to address PiS’s stringent abortion laws, which were a rallying point for mass protests that contributed to PiS’s electoral defeat. Despite the popular demand for change, conservative members within Tusk’s coalition have obstructed meaningful progress. These significant failures have raised concerns that, instead of creating an alternative to PiS’s agenda, the coalition is perpetuating similar policies, particularly when it comes to reforms affecting academic autonomy and historical narratives in public discourse.
Breaking the Cycle
Observers argue that to truly challenge the illiberalism of PiS, the governing coalition must stop relying on the worn-out strategy of simply fostering a “we’re not PiS” narrative. Instead, they need to develop robust, concrete policies that reflect the values of liberal democracy. Without this commitment to uphold democratic principles, the risk remains that illiberal policies will continue to shape Poland’s political landscape, regardless of who is in power. A proactive strategy that genuinely champions liberal values is essential if the coalition is to make a lasting difference against the backdrop of Poland’s enduring political turmoil.
SOURCE: Ref Image from EuroNews
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