Poland’s electoral law, investigative committee, and threats to the rule of law
MEPs will discuss Poland’s revision of its electoral law, as well as the new administrative body that threatens civil rights, and the ECJ’s judgment on the Disciplinary Chamber.
The revision of Poland’s electoral rules finalised in March 2023 foresees changes to polling stations and free transport for elderly and disabled people on voting day. Despite the government’s argument that this would strengthen democracy and facilitate the participation of disadvantaged citizens, the opposition argues the changes are designed to favour the participation of voters who traditionally support the ruling party, and that changing the location of polling stations will make it harder for some voters to find one. The opposition is also concerned by the short timeframe available for their implementation, with elections scheduled for autumn 2023.
MEPs had a first discussion during the May II plenary session on the Polish government’s so-called “State Commission for the examination of Russian interference in the internal security of Poland” from 2007-2022. This Commission, created in May 2023, raises serious concerns in terms of conformity with EU law, as it is an administrative body with the power to bar individuals from public office.
MEPs are also expected to focus on the recent judgment of the Court of Justice of the EU, which confirms that Polish justice reform of December 2019 that set up the Disciplinary Chamber for judges infringes EU law - a position that Parliament has repeatedly upheld.
A resolution will be put to the vote during the 10-13 July session.
Procedure: Council and Commission statements, with resolution
Debate: Wednesday 14 June
Vote: July plenary session