The Third Way and abortion
A debate on four bills related to abortion is on the schedule for April 11 in the Sejm. Two proposals come from the left, one from the Third Way, and one from the Civic Coalition. The topic has sparked considerable discussion among lawmakers and observers alike, with many watching to see how the different political blocs will align on a highly sensitive issue.
During a television appearance on TVN24, the matter was addressed by Rafał Trzaskowski. He acknowledged the potential for friction but stressed a clear expectation for how the issue should be handled in the legislature. He noted that the current parliamentary majority is made up of various parties, each carrying its own stance on abortion and reform.
Trzaskowski asserted that both his group and the left share the goal of liberalizing access to abortion. He also criticized the Third Way for proposing a referendum instead of straightforward votes on the proposed changes. He emphasized that the social expectation and existing obligations push for a direct vote on the matters, arguing that delaying the decisions for political considerations would amount to a political mistake.
According to Trzaskowski, many delegates elected from the Third Way lists are in favor of liberalizing access to abortion. He urged that the issues be put to a vote promptly, underscoring that not acting swiftly could leave the coalition facing internal tension and potential conflicts within the ruling majority.
The broader question now concerns whether substantive changes to the abortion law will trigger serious disagreements within the coalition led by Prime Minister Tusk. With a schedule that could test the durability of coalition ties, observers are watching to see whether the government will manage to keep all factions aligned on the path forward.
Related coverage notes that Hołownia and allied PSL figures have signaled a different stance, making it clear that the coalition will need to navigate diverse opinions while continuing discussions in committee rooms. The Sejm is expected to discuss the drafts on abortion, the Constitutional Court, and the National Council for the Judiciary on April 10–11, with a shared objective to move all abortion-related bills through the committee process.
As the political season unfolds, attention remains on how the parties will balance reform ambitions with internal priorities, and how the ultimate votes will shape the trajectory of Poland’s abortion policy. The evolving positions across party lines will likely influence not only parliamentary dynamics but also public perception of the governing coalition’s ability to deliver on contentious social issues.
Source: wPolityce.