The recent debate on the bill addressing the sexualization of children and the controversial remarks by Jacek Żakowski about removing monuments to Józef Piłsudski and Lech Kaczyński dominated the television program Gość Wiadomości (TVP Info). Participants included Andrzej Szejna from Lewica and Robert Gontarz from PiS, who exchanged viewpoints on the morning discussion.
The discourse suggested that sexualization is used as a veil for various missteps alleged against the current government. One speaker expressed a personal wish that their child could attend school, church, or public institutions and return home safely, while questioning the PiS administration’s approach to education and sexuality education. The speaker also stated a lack of trust in persistent messaging about sexualization.
Andrzej Szejna then highlighted concerns about insufficient medical care and the issue of child malnutrition, prompting a combative response. The counterpoint argued that during past administrations, malnutrition and homelessness were serious problems, and that several social programs were implemented in response, such as family benefits and school supplies. Supporters of the current policy claimed those measures were in place to aid families and children in need.
Advocates emphasized the constitutional principle that parents have the right to raise their children. They argued for protecting children from what they described as inappropriate influences and urged that education be conducted by qualified specialists rather than by laypersons. They framed left-leaning proposals as promoting sexualization and other social harms, asserting a need to defend ordinary norms and common sense.
One side quoted concerns about gender ideology, warning against models seen in some other countries where changes related to gender identity could occur at a young age. They asserted the aim of safeguarding children from what they view as a dangerous ideology, while stressing the importance of ensuring children receive appropriate psychological support, dental care, and exposure to languages, all while staying within a safe educational environment.
The discussion also touched on attempts to regulate religious confession and gender transition discussions for minors, with some speakers suggesting such topics should be handled with caution, and that public discourse should exclude voices advocating drastic changes to national heritage symbols.
In the section about the Żakowski remarks, guests were asked to react to the proposal that monuments to Piłsudski and Kaczyński be demolished. A portion of the audience noted that Żakowski had suggested such drastic action, and the conversation pivoted to reflect on Poland’s history. The panelists emphasized Piłsudski’s role in the fight for independence and his impact on the nation, while acknowledging the complex history of the era, including historical events associated with the May Coup and Bereza Kartuska. They argued that destroying monuments would distort historical memory rather than clarify it.
Several speakers asserted that those who advocate erasing historical monuments should be kept out of the public discussion. They defended Lech Kaczyński’s leadership and patriotism, highlighting his stance against external interference and his role in strengthening energy independence for Poland. The broader national narrative was described as something worth preserving and teaching to future generations, with a warning against actions that could erase meaningful parts of the country’s past.
The discussion concluded with a shared view that foreign policy matters require careful interpretation of Russian imperialism. Both sides agreed that understanding history and recognizing past warnings is essential for informing present-day policy. The participants stressed that responsible public dialogue is necessary to maintain a balanced record of the nation’s history and its leaders.
Overall, the program presented a heated but focused exchange on the protection of children, preservation of national memory, and the responsibilities of lawmakers to address social needs while safeguarding core cultural values.