Sunday marks the 34th anniversary of Poland’s first democratic elections since World War II. People on the street celebrate it, but are also clearly involved in contemporary politics. Hundreds of thousands of people march through the Polish capital carrying flags with texts like “Free and European Poland” and “European Union yes, PiS no”, a disapproval of the ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party. (ANP / Associated Press / Czarek Sokolowski)
Sunday marks the 34th anniversary of Poland’s first democratic elections since World War II. People on the street celebrate it, but are also clearly involved in contemporary politics. Hundreds of thousands of people march through the Polish capital carrying flags with texts like “Free and European Poland” and “European Union yes, PiS no”, a disapproval of the ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party.
There will be elections in Poland at the end of the year and the opposition is worried if they will be fair. For example, the government recently introduced a law to address “unauthorized Russian influence”. Critics say the law could be used for a witch hunt against opponents.
rule of law
There are many criticisms of PiS, both in Poland and abroad, but the party is also popular because it has spoken out vehemently against Russia. The Conservative Party also acts as a protector of traditional family values, which critics say are reflected in increased homophobia in the country. The opposition also criticizes abortion policy, the rule of law in Poland and the one-sided media landscape.
Tusk sees the high voter turnout in Warsaw as a good sign. “This wave cannot be stopped, the giants have risen. I’m proud to be here and say we’re going to win!’