The parliamentary election in Poland has witnessed a significant shift in power, as the right-wing Law and Justice party (PiS) was ousted from power due to the high level of engagement from women and young voters. With a record high turnout of over 74%, it is evident that the younger generation is actively participating in shaping their future and ensuring that their voices are heard. This article explores the impact of this political shift and the potential changes that may occur in Poland’s social and political landscape.
One of the key factors that contributed to PiS’s defeat was the strong engagement from young voters. Polls indicate that 68.8% of voters under the age of 29 turned out to vote, a significant surge from the previous parliamentary election. This increased youth participation is a reflection of their desire for change and a better future. In Wroclaw, a modern suburban area with a young population, the opposition Civic Coalition overwhelmingly won support, while PiS received a minimal percentage of votes. The major parties failed to pay attention to the concerns and priorities of the youth, which ultimately played a decisive role in their defeat.
The mobilization of women also played a crucial role in the election outcome. In 2020, Poland witnessed massive street protests against a near-ban on abortion, which galvanized women’s movements across the country. Recognizing the need to amplify women’s voices, activists launched a social media campaign urging women to exercise their right to vote. The campaign’s message resonated with women, leading to a higher voter turnout among them compared to men. This increased female participation reflects a collective demand for women’s rights and empowerment in Polish politics.
The election outcome has major implications for the future of Poland, particularly in its relationship with the European Union. The PiS government has been at odds with the EU on various issues, including the rule of law, LGBT rights, and migration. With the defeat of PiS, there is an expectation of more constructive relations under the leadership of Donald Tusk, a former president of the European Council. This shift may pave the way for improved cooperation and a more harmonious relationship between Poland and the EU.
Looking ahead, the opposition parties are preparing to govern and address critical issues such as abortion rights. Both the Civic Coalition and Left parties campaigned on promises to expand abortion access, overturning the restrictive policies implemented by the PiS government. The mandate received from the society emphasizes the urgency of this issue, and the opposition parties are expected to act upon it promptly. The continued mobilization and pressure from women’s groups will play a vital role in ensuring that these promised reforms are implemented effectively.
In conclusion, the parliamentary election in Poland witnessed a significant shift in power due to the active engagement of youth and women. The increased voter turnout among young people reflects their desire for change and a brighter future. Likewise, women’s mobilization and demands for their rights were instrumental in shaping the election outcome. This political shift has the potential to influence Poland’s relationship with the EU and result in significant policy changes, particularly in areas such as abortion rights. Moving forward, it is crucial to sustain and amplify the voices of these marginalized groups to ensure that their demands are met and their interests are represented in Polish politics.
