In a significant development, the European Commission (EC) is set to unlock up to 137 billion euros ($148 billion) for Poland as part of the European Union’s post-pandemic recovery package. This funding, previously frozen by the EC due to concerns over the rule of law, is now slated to be released following positive efforts by Poland to address these concerns.
EC President’s Announcement: EC President Ursula von der Leyen made the announcement during a joint press conference with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk in Warsaw. Von der Leyen commended Poland’s endeavors to restore the rule of law within the country, expressing the EC’s appreciation for the efforts made. She confirmed that decisions to release the funding would be presented by the EC in the coming week.
“We are impressed by your efforts and those of the Polish people to restore the rule of law as the backbone of your society,” stated von der Leyen during the press conference.
Poland’s Commitment to Rule of Law: Justice Minister Adam Bodnar of Poland recently presented a plan at the European Union’s (EU) General Affairs Council meeting in Brussels. The plan outlined strategies to reverse a significant legal overhaul implemented by Poland’s previous Law and Justice (PiS) government. The legal changes, criticized by the EC, had brought Polish courts and judges under political control, raising concerns about democratic checks and balances.
Background of Rule of Law Concerns: The EC, in response to actions taken by Poland’s government from 2015 to 2023, had raised alarms about the politicization of the judiciary and the erosion of democratic principles. This led to the freezing of billions of euros in recovery funding earmarked for Poland.
Positive Shift Under New Leadership: The current pro-EU government in Poland, led by Prime Minister Donald Tusk, has pledged to restore judicial independence. This commitment, along with proposed measures to undo the legal changes made by the previous government, has resulted in the EC’s decision to release the funds.
