2023 Parliamentary Elections in Poland

On October 15, Polish citizens will go to the polls to decide on their new leadership. These Polish elections are uniquely consequential for the European continent, the United States and the future of the transatlantic alliance. The country faces democratic backsliding that mirrors trends in other European countries and the United States: right-wing parties are rolling back the rights of women, minorities, and the LGBTQIA+ community, scapegoating migrants and refugees, and threatening free and independent media, the judiciary and the rule of law.

Since Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Poland has also played a central role in the European security architecture and is leading efforts to combat and end Russian aggression in the region.

In the following articles, our colleagues in Warsaw provide context for the Polish elections and explain what the vote means for the future of Europe, for the transatlantic partnership, and for progressive forces in the country.

Credible partner on NATO's eastern flank - Poland's new role in security policy

Interview
Security policy has always been a very high priority in Poland, which results from the country`s difficult past and the latent threat posed by Russia. The Russian invasion of Ukraine reaffirmed Poland`s commitment to its security policy and prompted more investment in defence. The country has now become an important player on NATO`s eastern flank. Joanna Maria Stolarek talks about this with Justyna Gotkowska, a security expert and deputy director of the think tank The Centre for Eastern Studies.
By Joanna Maria Stolarek

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