Poland faces fundamental questions about its rule of law. In Brussels, Justice Minister Adam Bodnar outlined a plan to restore the rule of law and implement reforms that Polish citizens expect. He noted the importance of the moment and the need to move forward in a way that aligns with both European expectations and Poland’s constitutional framework, highlighting the support from European colleagues in this shared effort. [Attribution: wPolityce]
The minister expressed gratitude to the Belgian Presidency and extended regards to President Vera Jourova and Commissioner Didier Reynders for their engagement in the process. Bodnar spoke at the conference in Brussels, underlining that these are issues that have driven many Poles to the streets in the past and must be resolved through determination and careful reform. [Attribution: wPolityce]
He reiterated that the reform agenda centers on key institutions: the National Council of the Judiciary, the Supreme Court, the Constitutional Court, and the ordinary courts, as well as clarifying the roles of the Minister of Justice and the Attorney General. The minister emphasized that ongoing decisions before the Court of Justice of the European Union and the European Court of Human Rights should reflect a steadfast commitment to European values and to Poland’s constitutional order. [Attribution: wPolityce]
Not to take shortcuts
After presenting the reform plan, Bodnar noted positive feedback from EU member states. He thanked the member countries for their trust and said that the reforms are being carried out within the rule of law, with a clear aim to secure broad consensus and predictability in legislative changes. This approach, he added, is intended to earn continued confidence from the European partners and to ensure that Poland meets basic legal norms while pursuing reform. [Attribution: wPolityce]
Von der Leyen’s visit
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s upcoming visit to Poland was confirmed by EC officials. It is planned for late February and will involve a tripartite meeting with Prime Minister Donald Tusk and the Belgian Prime Minister, Alexander De Croo. The meeting will be followed by a media briefing. [Attribution: wPolityce]
Ministers in Brussels
In Brussels, Bodnar, along with State Secretary Krzysztof Śmiszek and European Affairs Minister Adam Szłapka, presented a plan aimed at restoring the rule of law and moving away from the current EU procedure under article 7. Bodnar stressed the goal of lifting the infringement proceedings and aligning reforms with European norms. Earlier, EU officials Didier Reynders and Vera Jourova welcomed the plan, seeing it as a constructive step, though they also cautioned that much work remains before the procedure could be closed. [Attribution: wPolityce]
Jourova described the plan as realistic and emphasized the importance of rebuilding confidence through measurable and transparent reforms. The discussion highlighted the need for reforms to advance within EU rules while respecting Poland’s constitutional framework. [Attribution: wPolityce]
Bodnar: The end of the procedure has symbolic meaning
Bodnar said that closing the art. 7 procedure would carry symbolic importance for Poland. It would mark Poland as an equal EU member not subject to criticism for violating shared values, especially the rule of law. He cautioned that such an outcome would strengthen Poland’s ability to pursue EU projects and to assert Poland’s voice in EU foreign and defense policy. [Attribution: wPolityce]
He concluded that a successful completion would not only reflect internal reform but also enhance Poland’s standing on the European stage. [Attribution: wPolityce]
Further commentary suggested that the evolving situation in Brussels has influenced discussions about Poland’s approach to rule of law and the ongoing reforms. The evolving positions on judiciary matters continue to shape the broader EU dialogue. [Attribution: wPolityce]
Source: wPolityce [Attribution: wPolityce]