Poland

While Poland’s constitution largely protects free expression, there have been increasing  concerns about commitments to  free speech and media independence. Since December 2015, the Polish Government has acted to bring public service media broadcasters under its control. Throughout 2016, public radio and television personnel have been under considerable pressure to self-censor and many journalists lost their jobs. As Poland has a substantial percentage of foreign-owned media companies, the government has been advocating for their ‘re-Polonisation’  to reduce the number of critical voices. Simultaneously, the right to protest has been limited by a new law that gives priority to regular ‘cyclical’ (generally pro-government) gatherings,  while authorities have increasingly used force against counter-protesters. People protesting against violations of the Polish Constitution and judicial reforms have received criminal charges, fines or have been intimidated or surveilled by police. Women’s rights organisations endured police intimidation and searches following a nationwide rally supporting women’s rights  in October 2017.

ARTICLE 19 continues to monitor the freedom of expression context in Poland, documenting violations and advocating for redress. We conduct legal analysis on public service media law and support civil society and journalists in Poland to address issues.

Poland: Rainbow Mary case underscores the need to repeal blasphemy laws
25.03.2024 3 min read

Poland: Rainbow Mary case underscores the need to repeal blasphemy laws

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Poland: Protect Belsat TV and support vital independent news
19.03.2024 4 min read

Poland: Protect Belsat TV and support vital independent news

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Poland: Five priorities for restoring protection for freedom of expression
05.02.2024 15 min read

Poland: Five priorities for restoring protection for freedom of expression

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Poland: Media reforms must respect democratic values and the rule of law
22.01.2024 11 min read

Poland: Media reforms must respect democratic values and the rule of law

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EU: Polish election reinforces demands for the EU Media Freedom Act
24.10.2023 4 min read

EU: Polish election reinforces demands for the EU Media Freedom Act

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Poland: Record turnout elections pave the way for restoring democratic values
18.10.2023 8 min read

Poland: Record turnout elections pave the way for restoring democratic values

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Poland: Media freedom at a crossroads
05.10.2023 3 min read

Poland: Media freedom at a crossroads

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Poland: Stark challenges and uncertain future for media ahead of elections
15.09.2023 5 min read

Poland: Stark challenges and uncertain future for media ahead of elections

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Poland: Press freedom mission to Warsaw ahead of election
04.09.2023 2 min read

Poland: Press freedom mission to Warsaw ahead of election

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