Poland - August 2024

On 30 August, the government published new guidelines for hospitals and prosecutors, aiming to ease abortion access. The guidelines state that one doctor’s opinion confirming that the health of the mother is endangered is sufficient to terminate a pregnancy. Previously, healthcare providers often required opinions from several doctors or the convening of a medical board before offering access to a lawful abortion. Under the current law, abortion is legal only in cases where the mother’s health or life is at risk or if the pregnancy is the result of a crime. The guidelines also ensure access to an abortion on the grounds of protection of the mother’s mental health. A recent report from UN experts noted excessive requirements by certain hospitals, such as a certificate by a Catholic psychologist. This comes after an earlier development in June, when the government lifted the “conscience clause” that allows doctors to refuse to perform an abortion if it contradicts their beliefs.  

Sources: International IDEA (1), International IDEA (2), Notes from Poland (1), Notes from Poland (2), UN News, Chancellery of the Prime Minister, Center for Reproductive Rights

On 29 August, the National Electoral Commission (PKW) issued a fine to the former governing party, Law and Justice (PiS), for violating campaign financing regulations during the 2023 parliamentary elections. The Commission determined that PiS had illegally spent USD 930,738 (over PLN 3 million) of public funds for its campaign. The Commission stated that PiS took advantage of public military events as an opportunity for campaigning and stated that the party paid employees of government agencies to campaign on the party’s behalf. Owing to the violations of campaign funding, PiS will have its publicly-funded campaign allowance reduced by USD 2.59 million (nearly three times the total irregular spending identified in 2023), and receive cuts to its annual state funding, lasting until the 2027 parliamentary elections. PiS has the opportunity to appeal to the Supreme Court, and has claimed the decision aims to undermine the party’s chances in the 2025 presidential elections.

Sources: Reuters, Politico, Bloomberg, 300 Polityka, Notes from Poland, PKW, OSCE