Poland’s upcoming parliamentary election is set to determine the course of the country’s democracy. As the right-wing Law and Justice party battles to secure a record third term in office, the centrist main opposition Civic Coalition aims to end its eight-year rule. The campaign has been marked by acrimonious exchanges and personalised attacks between the two parties’ leaders, Jaroslaw Kaczynski and Donald Tusk. However, with opinion polls suggesting neither party will secure a majority, the final days and hours of campaigning have been intense.
The Law and Justice party has portrayed the opposition as a national threat, warning of mass migration and chaos. It has stirred fear about migration and emphasised its refusal to accept an EU relocation plan for illegal migrants. On the other hand, the Civic Coalition has accused the ruling party of undermining key elements of democracy, such as the politicisation of Poland’s courts and increased control of the press. It highlights concerns about the country’s strained relationship with Europe and worries that re-electing the Law and Justice party could jeopardise Poland’s EU membership.
The election holds significant consequences for Poland’s future relationship with Russia and Germany. Kaczynski has consistently depicted Tusk as a puppet of both nations, questioning his patriotism and suggesting he poses a security threat. The opposition leader, however, argues that re-electing the Law and Justice party would be disastrous and highlights the government’s policies that have strained relations with Europe.
The election has also gained attention internationally, with over 600,000 Poles abroad registering to vote. Expats have historically favoured the opposition, and concerns about potential fraud have led officials to encourage voting in nearby countries to avoid long queues. Additionally, a national referendum will be held concurrently with the election, with questions specifically aimed at mobilising the ruling party’s supporters.
The outcome of the election remains uncertain, with possibilities ranging from a minority government led by the Law and Justice party to a coalition with the far-right Confederation party. The prospect of a party with a record of racism and homophobia holding power raises concerns among some citizens.
The election is not just a choice between two parties but a decision that will shape the direction of Poland’s future. The ruling party promises a better life for Poles, highlighting higher wages and pensions, while the opposition argues for the protection of democracy and a stronger relationship with Europe. The choice made by Polish voters will determine the country’s trajectory, and the stakes are high for the preservation of democracy in Poland.
