Karol Nawrocki, presidential candidate, opposes civil partnerships and abortion law rollback, sparking debate on social and ethical issues.
Nawrocki Takes Leave as Presidential Campaign Gains Momentum
Karol Nawrocki, the candidate for president and the current head of Poland’s Institute of National Remembrance (IPN), announced during an interview with Polsat News that he will take leave starting January 15 to focus on his campaign. This decision aligns with the announcement of the presidential election dates by Marshal of the Sejm, Szymon Hołownia. The first round of voting is scheduled for May 18, with a potential runoff on June 1.
“The election dates are perfect,” Nawrocki stated enthusiastically. “May 18 marks the birth of the greatest Pole, Pope John Paul II, and June 1 resonates with us all—as children or as parents.”
Nawrocki also expressed confidence about his stamina during a potentially long campaign. “My endurance is truly at a high level. For me, the longer the campaign, the more joy it brings—meeting Poles and discussing key issues is both a great challenge and an immense pleasure,”
he said, contrasting himself with his main rival, Rafał Trzaskowski, whom he described as lacking in diligence and perseverance.
Opposition to Returning to the Abortion Compromise
When questioned about his stance on abortion, Nawrocki firmly rejected the idea of reinstating the compromise that allowed for abortion in cases of severe fetal abnormalities. “I would not sign a law that brings back the abortion compromise. As a future president, I cannot permit the abortion of children with Down syndrome,” he declared.
The debate on abortion laws has been reignited by the proposal of the Third Way coalition to restore legal provisions that were overturned by a Constitutional Tribunal ruling in 2021. Under current laws, abortion is only permitted if the pregnancy endangers the mother’s health or life, or if it is a result of a criminal act, such as rape. The Tribunal’s decision to remove severe fetal impairment as grounds for abortion led to nationwide protests and heated debates.
No Support for Civil Partnerships but Open to Discussions
Nawrocki also expressed opposition to a proposed bill on civil partnerships introduced by Katarzyna Kotula, the Minister for Equality. The bill aims to allow two consenting adults, regardless of gender, to form a legal partnership with rights including joint taxation, shared property, and medical access.
“I would not sign a law on civil partnerships,” Nawrocki said unequivocally, adding, “However, I am open to discussing the status of close persons.” His comments align with a proposal by the Polish People’s Party (PSL), which plans to introduce a more limited bill focusing on legal recognition for close personal relationships, including inheritance and medical decision-making rights.
Kotula’s civil partnership bill also includes provisions for partners to share a surname and participate in child-rearing responsibilities. Despite its progressive outlook, the proposal has sparked controversy, with critics arguing it undermines traditional family values.
A Divisive Campaign Trail Ahead
Nawrocki’s conservative positions are set to shape the dynamics of the upcoming presidential race, where he faces contenders such as Warsaw Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski (Civic Coalition), Sejm Marshal Szymon Hołownia (Polska 2050), and Magdalena Biejat of the New Left. With social issues at the forefront, the campaign promises to be a platform for passionate debates on Poland’s future.
As the candidate endorsed by the Law and Justice (PiS) party, Nawrocki appears committed to upholding traditional values, a stance that resonates with a significant portion of the electorate while polarizing others. Whether his positions will secure him victory or fuel opposition remains to be seen.