If the opposition secures victory in the elections, the risk is not stability but a destabilized government and upheaval. This stance is echoed by Prof. Przemysław Czarnek, head of the Ministry of Education and Science, who links recent scandals to broader political consequences. In his view, the Pandora Scandal involving popular online gamers and young audiences underscores the need for accountability and justice to protect minors.
A quick question from PAP asks why this election is deemed so consequential.
Prof. Przemysław Czarnek explains that a victory by the opposition would signal an end to democracy and the rule of law in Poland. He argues that the New Era of leadership would mark the disappearance of pluralism, free expression, and legal safeguards that, in his framing, defined the post-1989 transition. He casts the opposing coalition as pursuing totalitarian aims and insists that their presence would erode democratic norms.
How would that totalitarianism manifest itself? He cites statements attributed to the opposition leader about halting a broader political divide and pursuing unity by limiting political diversity. In his view, such rhetoric would suppress freedom of speech and the acceptance of dissenting views, replacing it with monitoring and disintegration of dissenters. He points to campus conversations and public discourse as evidence of creeping totalitarian pressure.
Discussing media and governance, he notes that the opposition has called for significant changes that would involve reshaping or cleaning up institutions like public broadcasting. He acknowledges that critics label him and his allies as undemocratic, yet argues that the current path is blocked only by EU-level obstacles. He asserts that reform of the legal system is underway and that future steps will reinforce democratic norms, freedom of expression, and rule of law, while dismissing opposing claims as misinformation.
In relation to the European Union, he stresses the importance of a united, strong bloc that can compete on equal terms with global powers. He argues that fragmentation weakens the EU and that unity is essential for security and competitiveness. The discussion then shifts to migration. He frames the migrant solidarity debate as a question of demographic longevity and economic sustainability for pension systems, rather than solely a matter of humanitarian solidarity. He critiques certain urban episodes and points to law and order concerns, while distinguishing labor migration from broad migration policy.
Regarding cultural values, United Right promotes traditional principles and questions contemporary social shifts. He casts doubt on rapid social change and contends that religious institutions should preserve core teachings. He maintains that the Church should remain true to its gospel foundations, resisting changes that would depart from established doctrine. He asserts that Polish Catholics value continuity with their faith and community.
The Pandora affair is revisited as a focal point of public concern. The defense argues that those responsible should face justice to prevent harm to minors. The investigative process is framed as a matter for appropriate authorities to handle swiftly and fairly, ensuring that guilty parties are punished in proportion to their actions.
On education, he suggests reinforcing values-based learning to foster civic responsibility and to prevent democracy from degenerating into a governance without shared standards. He advocates strengthening family-centered ethics, a stance he describes as a long-standing Priority for the United Right, and believes it should guide future policy.
Looking ahead to the election outcome, he urges calm and argues that any victory by his party would ease social tensions by reducing constant opposition rhetoric and media agitation. He notes that protests and demonstrations are part of democratic expression but believes that a new administration would focus on governing and ending the perpetual cycle of heightened confrontation.
In a recent meeting with supporters, a party leader acknowledged the political dynamics and explained that the next government would prioritize dialogue and practical governance. He contrasted this approach with what he described as persistent misinformation and personal attacks in the opposition’s rhetoric. He believes that a decisive electoral result would empower stable governance and genuine policy implementation, acknowledging the complex landscape of multiple parties as part of a broader, evolving political system.
For Poland’s future, the discourse centers on balancing national values with open dialogue, ensuring safety and social cohesion while protecting civil liberties. The conversation touches on how to harmonize tradition with modern responsibilities amid a rapidly changing European environment. The overarching question remains: how will a new administration steer the country toward stability, prosperity, and inclusive growth?
End of excerpt. Pap/policy analysis