The European Commission has issued a formal call for Polish authorities to ensure that the nation's Constitutional Tribunal operates in accordance with the Polish constitution and adheres to European legal standards. This intervention comes as a result of an intensifying political crisis within the country regarding the legitimacy and control of its highest judicial institution.
A spokesperson for the European Commission stated on Sunday that they are monitoring recent developments closely. She emphasized that it remains the responsibility of Polish authorities to ensure the tribunal functions effectively while respecting relevant case law established by the Court of Justice of the European Union. Regarding the appointment of eight new tribunal members, the spokesperson noted that this action falls within the constitutional powers of the Sejm, the lower house of the Polish parliament, citing an October 13, 2026, opinion by the Venice Commission that confirmed this authority. Furthermore, she noted that on May 5, 2026, the European Court of Human Rights issued interim measures requiring Polish authorities to refrain from hindering judges appointed by the Sejm in March 2026 from exercising their judicial duties.
The situation escalated significantly on Friday when the Constitutional Tribunal announced the immediate suspension of its president, Bogdan Swieczkowski, and vice president, Bartlomiej Sochanski. Control of the institution was transferred temporarily to Judge Anna Korwin-Piotrowska, a figure appointed by the current parliamentary majority. Following warnings from Korwin-Piotrowska regarding potential threats to staff and judges, as well as the risk of public disorder, police were deployed to secure the tribunal headquarters.
Polish President Karol Nawrocki interrupted an official visit to Senegal on Friday night to return to Warsaw, where he proceeded directly to the tribunal's headquarters. Media footage depicted tense confrontations within the building between presidential aides and newly appointed judges. Upon departing, President Nawrocki described the events as a violation of Poland’s constitutional order and requested urgent consultations among parliamentary leaders.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk addressed the nation on Saturday evening, defending the government’s actions and asserting that he holds the responsibility for restoring the rule of law. Tusk accused President Nawrocki and the conservative opposition of undermining the legal system, further stating that police intervention had been necessary to protect the tribunal from attackers.
