Poland may soon see civil partnerships discussed at the government level. Equality Minister Katarzyna Kotula, representing the left, told PAP that she would like to initiate consultations on the issue within a month and hopes for a government project to lead the way. This marks a shift in public debate, aligning with a long-standing demand from the left for greater recognition of non-traditional family models.
Kotula emphasized that the current climate within the coalition supports pursuing such partnerships. She noted, however, that if there isn’t a government plan ready, a parliamentary bill could still move forward, though she believes a government proposal should be the priority. Her aim is to start discussions soon and she intends to speak with the Prime Minister to encourage swift action.
The minister described equality as a broad field, promising action on urgent fronts. She highlighted the need to withdraw opposition to the European Union directive against violence toward women, a measure she said should be addressed immediately. The discussions also touched on proposed changes to the definition of rape, as drafted by MP Anita Kucharska-Dziedzic and lawyer Danuta Wawrowska.
Among other key items, Kotula pointed to personal assistance for people with disabilities and the inclusion of hate speech in the Criminal Code as important agenda items. She explained that while an equality office exists and a minister for equality is in place, there is no separate ministry for the portfolio. The office has been moving from the Ministry of Family Affairs and Social Policy to the Chancellery of the Prime Minister, though Kotula continues to operate within the Prime Minister’s Chancellery.
Kotula also recalled the history of the equality appointment under PiS, noting past plenipotentiaries who helped shape anti-discrimination work. She cited the influential contributions of Izabela Jaruga-Nowacka, Małgorzata Fuszary, Magdalena Środa, and Agnieszka Kozłowska-Rajewicz and expressed a desire to continue that legacy.
These remarks clearly signal the coalition’s chosen direction: a notable shift to the left that may not fully align with more conservative voters, including members of the Third Way bloc. The stance reflects a broader push within the current government to advance social policy reform and strengthen protections related to equality and anti-violence initiatives.
gah/PAP
Source: wPolityce