Crisis over top court shapes Poland’s battle lines before 2027 election

Commissioner Michael McGrath backed Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Tuesday, declaring that appointing new judges lies within the power of the Sejm as the country faces a constitutional crisis over its top court.

Polish President Karol Nawrocki has escalated the conflict by entering the top court building late at night, forcing his way through protesters. Nawrocki is aligned with the party that triggered mass protests with its abortion clampdown five years ago.

The government has voted to ease abortion laws, a move Nawrocki could veto. The standoff is shaping the political battle lines ahead of the 2027 election.

Commission supports Tusk

The European Commission has thrown its weight behind Tusk, who has vowed no compromise in the court showdown.