In March 2019, conservative local officials from Poland’s Law and Justice (PiS) party, led by Radosław Brzózka, enacted a regional government resolution that sparked widespread controversy for its anti-LGBTQ+ stance. This move was aligned with the sentiments of the country’s education minister, Przemysław Czarnek, known for his derogatory remarks against LGBTQ+ individuals. However, recent developments have seen a significant reversal of these policies following intervention from the European Union.
EU’s Financial Ultimatum Leads to Policy Change
Earlier this month, the threat of the European Union pulling 3.6 million Polish zloty (approximately €810,000 or $867,955 USD) in funding prompted the local council to rescind the 2019 resolution. This decision was influenced by the European Commission’s September 2021 action, where it warned five Polish provinces of withholding over 126 million euros in pandemic relief funds due to their anti-LGBTQ measures.
Shift in Local Governance
In Świdnik, local elected official Jakub Osina announced the repeal of the anti-LGBTQ resolution, replacing it with a new one that omits LGBT issues and focuses on protecting “the moral development of the young generation and the institution of the family based on Christian values.” This change represents a strategic shift by the local authorities to align with EU directives while maintaining their conservative ethos.
The Backdrop of Poland’s Conservative Surge
Poland has witnessed a resurgence of right-wing, religious ultra-conservatism, supported by nationalistic extremists in the predominantly Catholic country. These groups have been instrumental in implementing measures that restrict LGBTQ+-friendly events, including pride parades, under the guise of protecting regions from “LGBTQ ideology.” This stance is claimed to represent the average Polish citizen and aligns with the anti-LGBTQ views of the Catholic Church.
EU’s Stance on LGBTQ Rights
The European Union’s intervention underscores its commitment to protecting LGBTQ rights across member states. ILGA-Europe, a Brussels-based advocacy group, has been actively informing EU ministers about systematic breaches of EU law by Hungary and Poland, which negatively impact the rights and lives of LGBTQ+ individuals. The European Union’s firm stance has led to many Polish local authorities beginning to repeal their anti-LGBTQ resolutions.
This development in Poland highlights the complex interplay between national politics, regional governance, and international oversight. It also reflects the growing influence of the European Union in shaping member states’ policies, especially regarding human rights and equality. The situation in Poland serves as a case study of how international pressure can lead to significant policy shifts, even in regions with deeply entrenched conservative values.