An abortion activist who represents the famous Mrs. Joanna, or a lawyer from the Free Court who challenges Poland in the European Parliament—these names have appeared as contenders for Warsaw Woman of the Year 2023. In a social media post, MEP Patryk Jaki framed the discussions around this year’s award as a confrontation, suggesting that some of the candidates could jeopardize deeply rooted Polish values.
Plebiscite for Warsaw Woman of the Year 2023
The outcome of the plebiscite, scheduled to be announced on November 21, is closely watched. The official description of the Warsaw Woman of the Year emphasizes that she “boldly takes new directions and spreads enthusiasm,” a portrait of resilience and forward momentum within the city’s community life.
Across Warsaw, countless women are observed for their influence, perseverance, and daily acts of courage. They help others through setbacks, offer support and care, and contribute to building a community where safety, compassion, and opportunity can flourish. The Woman of the Year plebiscite in Warsaw shines a light on individuals who consistently change the reality around them for the better. These are women who combine creativity with energy and a touch of rebellious spirit, inspiring others to pursue new paths and share optimism. They motivate and uplift those around them.
– as described on the official page dedicated to the referendum.
An activist and a lawyer as possible models of modern heroines?
Who fits the criteria outlined by the organizers? The candidates were reviewed by MEP Patryk Jaki. He noted that “Rafał Trzaskowski described these women as real contemporary heroines,” and he spoke about the nomination process and potential contenders.
One candidate highlighted is Justyna Wydrzyńska. Her work has drawn attention for advocacy on reproductive rights in the city, and she has been discussed in relation to a controversial court ruling that critics say was unjust. Her speech in a European forum about Poland has also been noted as a defining moment in the discourse surrounding national policy and civil discourse.
Another nominee is Kamila Ferenc. The commentary around her points to her associations with prominent figures in Polish civic life and to her advocacy efforts within Kraków. The discussion underscores how public figures connected to domestic movements can shape national conversations about civic participation and accountability.
Agnieszka Szpila is also mentioned as a nominee. The remarks around her include controversy over a statement that intersected with debates on heritage and gender norms, reflecting how authorial voices in public life can influence the broader dialogue on social values and policy direction.
Sylwia Gregorczyk-Abram is listed among the contenders as well. She is known for co-founding a civic initiative and for her advocacy around political participation. Her visibility in media discussions, including international outlets, has contributed to the debate about Poland’s political culture and its engagement with European counterparts. The decision-makers described the jury as composed of journalists from major outlets who evaluate the candidates through the lens of national identity and civic impact.
The evaluation process has sparked strong sentiment, with some voices arguing that the nomination process highlights values that may be increasingly at odds with portions of the public discourse. Critics have suggested that the presentation of certain figures as exemplars could be seen as provocative or polarizing, while supporters emphasize the importance of diverse viewpoints and active citizenship in a vibrant civil society. The conversation around the plebiscite thus reflects broader debates about national identity, youth, and the role of public figures in shaping cultural norms.
Given the intensity of the debate, observers note that the plebiscite is less about a single hero and more about what kind of stories a city wants to tell about its future. The process invites residents to reflect on values such as resilience, solidarity, and civic courage, as well as the ways in which public life intersects with political discourse on national level decisions. In this light, Warsaw’s Woman of the Year becomes a mirror for ongoing conversations about leadership, responsibility, and the direction of civic life in Poland.
These discussions, while lively, remind readers that public recognition carries responsibility. The initiative invites participants to consider not only the achievements of potential nominees but also how they embody the city’s aspirations for a more inclusive and dynamic community. In the end, the plebiscite aims to celebrate Women who inspire daily action, nurture empathy, and help build a Poland that values courage, integrity, and democratic participation.