In Brussels, a statement claimed by an EU commissioner about the regulation concerning the Commission for Investigating Russian Influence was challenged by Polish ambassador to the EU Andrzej Sadoś. He told reporters that the claim about there being no court appeal within the law is incorrect.
Sadoś: The EC must first study the law, then assess it
Sadoś noted that the topic did not come up during the EU General Affairs Council meeting. He added that he has discussed the matter with officials from the European Commission.
He explained that he had the chance to brief both Commissioner Reynders and Vice-President Jourova, who referenced yesterday’s decisions, that the Commission needs to examine the legislative act, read its text, and only then form an assessment. He stressed that one commissioner had provided misleading statements to the media, including the assertion that the regulation lacks a court appeal. That claim is not accurate, he said.
He emphasized the need to wait for the EC to become familiar with the new provisions before drawing final conclusions.
Discussion on the Art. 7 procedure against Poland
Sadoś also mentioned that Tuesday’s discussions within the Council of the EU touched on the procedure under Article 7 against Poland.
The Polish side provided an update on the current status of ongoing initiatives. It was noted that a ruling by the Constitutional Tribunal is expected next week, with information to be shared on June 5. On the EC side, statements were made by Commissioner Reynders and Vice-President Jourova. Nine Western European countries participated and sought clarifications about the implementation level of the legislative initiatives. For six consecutive years, Poland has responded to inquiries related to judicial reform.
- Sados.
The Polish authorities expressed particular concern about the law creating a special committee. The EC indicated it will take action if necessary.
European Commissioner for Justice Didier Reynders spoke Monday morning ahead of a General Affairs Council meeting, noting that the European Commission remains particularly concerned about the Polish law on the special committee, which could affect the eligibility of individuals to hold public office. He added that such removals could occur through an administrative decision without judicial review.
The EC’s concern remains high, and it will review the law and consider appropriate actions if needed, Reynders stated.
On Monday, President Andrzej Duda announced his plan to sign the law that establishes a commission to investigate Russian influence on Poland’s internal security from 2007 to 2022 and to refer it to the Constitutional Tribunal as a follow-up process.
On April 14, the Sejm passed the law creating the commission, which began forming last December. PiS delegates noted that the commission should operate under principles similar to those of the verification commission for the post-privatization of Warsaw.
Additional context includes remarks about ongoing analyses by EU bodies and media coverage of the commission’s framework and potential implications.
Sources referenced in the discussion include journalistic outlets and parliamentary statements that reflect the evolving legal and political debate surrounding the commission and its oversight.