Poland’s Constitutional Tribunal faces budget cuts imposed by the Tusk government. President Święczkowski vows to keep the Tribunal functioning, even at the cost of judicial pensions.
Bogdan Święczkowski, President of Poland’s Constitutional Tribunal (TK), has announced measures to ensure judges continue receiving their salaries despite significant budget cuts. The Polish government, led by Donald Tusk, reduced TK’s budget by over 10 million PLN and slashed funds for the National Council of the Judiciary (KRS) by over 6 million PLN in the 2025 state budget. Święczkowski accused the government of attempting to disable the Tribunal and vowed to keep it operational. He even suggested reallocating pensions from retired judges who publicly criticize the Tribunal to cover current salaries.
Legal and Political Ramifications
This move deepens the ongoing conflict between Poland’s ruling coalition and the judiciary. President Andrzej Duda has already referred the budgetary cuts to the Constitutional Tribunal for review, signaling potential legal battles ahead. Critics argue that Święczkowski’s proposal undermines judicial independence, while supporters see it as a necessary response to political interference. Despite financial constraints, Święczkowski insists the Tribunal will continue its work, regardless of whether judges receive their salaries. The situation underscores the growing tension between Poland’s executive and judicial branches, raising concerns about the rule of law in the country.