A Polish minister criticized state-funded universities when asked about disciplinary actions taken by the Warsaw University Disciplinary Committee against Oskar Szafarowicz. The remarks arose after reports that the university opened proceedings against the young PiS activist over his social media posts, which authorities described as provocative.
During a press event, the minister addressed a Twitter post in which he urged the university’s disciplinary body not to apply politics on either side. He reiterated his stance on freedom of speech within Poland, framing the country as a democratic and lawful nation with a free press that can question the government openly. He contrasted this with passages from Germany and France, where he claimed some facts are concealed about sensitive issues, including crimes and migrant incidents, and argued that criticizing multiculturalism could lead to punishment.
The minister asserted that Poland is a land of law and expression. He warned that if a university student, or someone merely engaging on social media, speaks on current events and the university responds through disciplinary channels, such action could resemble totalitarianism.
He declared his opposition to totalitarianism in universities funded by the state budget and urged a firm stance against perceived political actions by university disciplinary bodies that lean left. The minister pledged to deliver a sharp address to university leadership to advocate for academic freedom and to insist that power should not be used to curb expression by students or staff.
In this context, he described the concept of academic freedom as a framework that protects free inquiry and public discourse within universities. He suggested that if Szafarowicz has caused harm or offense, that is a matter for the courts to resolve, ensuring due process and the protection of rights when appropriate. He argued that the role of the disciplinary committee is not to suppress expression or philosophical beliefs but to preserve an open environment where ideas can be discussed freely.
The minister emphasized that university life should not stifle individual liberty or religious expression but instead support it while maintaining civility and legal boundaries. He referred to recent discussions as part of a broader debate about the balance between discipline and freedom on campus.
Earlier reports from Interia.pl indicated that the Warsaw University Disciplinary Committee had initiated proceedings against Szafarowicz, citing his social media entries as the basis for the case. The minister later invited Szafarowicz to a meeting at which his remarks would be considered in the context of the rector of Warsaw University and the relevant university bodies.
In closing, officials suggested that a robust system for safeguarding academic liberty should exist alongside mechanisms to address conduct that crosses legal or ethical lines. The overarching aim is to ensure the university remains a space for open dialogue while upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of all participants. The discussion remains part of a wider national conversation about the role of universities in shaping public life, the boundaries of permissible political activity, and the protection of freedom of expression on campus. The debate continues as stakeholders weigh policy actions and safeguards for academic freedom in Poland.
(Source: wPolityce, as reported by mly/PAP). The information reflects ongoing reporting and statements from government officials regarding disciplinary practices at major Polish universities.