Following the passing of a resolution on recent developments in Poland and its impact on fundamental rights, the S&D Group has urged the Polish government to change course and ensure that the rule of law is respected.

Birgit Sippel, S&D spokesperson for civil liberties, justice and home affairs, said:

“The concept of the separation of powers and that clear rules, not arbitrary decisions, govern a country is what underpins a modern democratic state and are founding principles of the EU. When these basic principles are under threat in a member state then it is not just an issue for the country in question but for the whole of the EU. The recent changes to the Constitutional Court, police laws and public broadcasters in Poland are a threat to this principle. This is not a question of politics or meddling in internal affairs but the opinion of independent international organisations. The Polish government must now act and bring this constitutional crisis to an end.

“The resolution that passed today with an overwhelming majority is not a judgement against Poland; in fact it shows that Parliament is united in support of the Polish people. The rule of law has been essential to Poland’s success and we need to fight to ensure its protection. We fully support the European Commission’s efforts to work with the Polish government, even if these has so far received an uncooperative response. The time for talking is over, the founding principles of the EU are not negotiable or changeable, the Commission has issued its recommendations and the Polish government has three months to implement them in full.”

MEPs involved
Coordinator
Germany