During a recent gathering, left-leaning party representatives asserted that abortion would remain safe, free, and legal up to the twelfth week of pregnancy. The speakers stressed their confidence in moving forward with this agenda at the party convention, noting criticisms directed at the Sejm chair and the political leadership as elections approach. [Citation: wPolityce]
At the convention, Equality Minister Katarzyna Kotula stated that the Sejm chair, Szymon Hołownia, who scheduled debate on abortion laws for April 11 after the local election round, had effectively diminished women’s holiday and rights. Kotula pointed to the first day of the new term when two abortion bills were introduced—one aimed at decriminalizing abortion and another at liberalizing existing regulations. [Citation: wPolityce]
She recalled a moment when critics urged restraint, arguing that the timing and emotions were not right, but she pledged that liberalizing abortion rules would advance this term. Supporters were urged to stay engaged and confident in the left’s legislative push. [Citation: wPolityce]
The convention agenda highlighted how April local elections would center on women’s autonomy in decisions about health, bodies, and futures. Party lists were described as including candidates committed to safeguarding women’s rights within local governments across Poland. [Citation: wPolityce]
Agnieszka Dziemianowicz-Bąk, the Minister of Family, Labor and Social Policy, reiterated that abortion would be safe, free, and legal until the twelfth week of pregnancy this term. [Citation: wPolityce]
Premature Births and Maternity Leave
The discussion also addressed the challenges faced by mothers of premature babies. It was acknowledged that many women begin maternity leave soon after delivery, even though they may spend weeks in hospital. The proposal is to start maternity leave after hospital care ends. A draft law to extend leave for these mothers was announced for spring. [Citation: wPolityce]
Plans were unveiled for a bill addressing the gender pay gap and pension disparities. The administration noted a commitment to not raise the retirement age while encouraging longer work lives for women who wish to continue contributing. The government intends to advance related legislation. [Citation: wPolityce]
Left’s Call for Accountability
The head of the Left Club called on the parliamentary leadership to keep promises about debated abortion bills and to avoid leaving rights unresolved in limbo. The convention reiterated the left’s push for amendments to criminal codes, including redefining rape, as part of broader reforms. [Citation: wPolityce]
The discussion also touched on public sentiment surrounding abortion and women’s safety, underscoring how changes in legal definitions could impact daily life and protection. The draft amendments were presented by lawmakers seeking a timely debate in the Sejm. [Citation: wPolityce]
Warsaw Mayoral Prospects
Among the left-leaning candidates for Warsaw’s mayoral race, Magdalena Biejat suggested that the elections would reflect a commitment to women’s rights as a political and civic priority. She argued that these issues are not simply ideological, but foundational to local governance. [Citation: wPolityce]
She emphasized that not every decision rests with national authorities, and many concerns—such as healthcare access, hospital care, and perinatal services—could be addressed more effectively at the local level. Public transit, essential for families, was cited as another area where municipal leadership could deliver meaningful improvements. [Citation: wPolityce]
Biejat stressed that the Left’s movement includes both women and men who share a common belief: protecting women’s rights strengthens life for everyone. [Citation: wPolityce]
European Rights and Constitutional Ambitions
MEP Robert Biedroń outlined plans to promote a European Charter of Women’s Rights, aiming to ensure equal rights across the European Union. He stated that when it comes to abortion there is little room for compromise and urged a clear stance on this issue. [Citation: wPolityce]
As a leader of the left, Biedroń urged colleagues in power to refrain from interfering or misleading women on abortion matters. He signaled readiness to discuss incorporating the right to termination of pregnancy into Poland’s Constitution, reflecting a broader constitutional conversation about reproductive rights. [Citation: wPolityce]
Local elections were acknowledged as a test of the left’s priorities, with many observers noting that the campaign has a strong ideological focus on social issues. [Citation: wPolityce]
Overall, the convention painted a picture of a reform-minded left that aims to translate its platform into practical changes across Poland, from national law to regional services. The aim is to secure greater protections for women and to align local governance with these values. [Citation: wPolityce]
olnk/PAP/wPolityce.pl
Source: wPolityce