There’s no permission for that, says Deputy Minister
If new legislation passes, transferring forest powers to the European Union would become practically impossible, according to Deputy Justice Minister Michał Woś. The topic sparked sharp debate among ruling party figures and forestry professionals, leading to a proposal to move forestry from national control to a joint EU and member state competence. Earlier this year, the European Parliament’s Environment Committee signaled support for an amendment that would place forestry under a shared competence framework. Amending Treaties requires the unanimous consent of all EU member states, a high hurdle that many see as unlikely to be cleared quickly.
In tracking developments, many observers noted related actions. A social campaign was launched by the Solidarna Polska party, with officials pledging to defend Polish forests, while the Minister of Climate emphasized that State Forests would not be transferred to EU control or private management. Any treaty changes would require broad agreement across the entire EU.
During a recent conference, politicians from Solidarna Polska and representatives from Staatsbosbeheer discussed the issue. Woś announced that the party had formed a Legislative Initiative Committee and prepared a bill. The next steps involve awaiting registration decisions from the Marshal of the Sejm and beginning signature collection, signalling a deliberate push to ensure parliamentary attention to the proposal.
The deputy minister underscored the perception that Poland’s forests face risks if the EU broadens its jurisdiction. He argued that forest policy could shift away from being an exclusive national competence toward a shared arrangement, a change he warned could tilt influence toward broader European interests at the expense of Polish stewardship.
Wos asserted that Solidarna Polska and Polish foresters do not support the direction of such shifts, and he expressed gratitude for those standing with Poland’s forest sector. The stance, he added, aims to alert national institutions and mobilize action to curb potential early moves by Brussels that could reallocate forest powers away from Poland.
In a separate moment, Woś referenced remarks by European Parliament member Janina Ochojska, accusing her of spreading misleading claims about Polish foresters. He stated that Polish foresters would defend their good name and bring any disputed statements into public view so citizens could judge the behavior of those involved. He described the situation as a matter of national interest and responsibility, arguing that those who undermine Poland should be held to account and reminded of the country’s priorities over Brussels bureaucrats or external influences.
For additional context, another media outlet discussed the broader debate around European forest policy and its potential impact on Poland. The coverage noted the tension between regional autonomy and European integration in matters of resource management and industry. The situation remains dynamic as party leaders pursue legislative steps and public dialogue to shape the future of forestry policy in Poland. [Source: wPolityce]