Brussels: The European Union said on Monday it will drop action started against Poland six years ago over rule-of-law concerns that could have led Warsaw to lose its vote in the bloc’s affairs. The EU announcement was welcomed by the Polish government. This decision marks the conclusion of efforts undertaken by Warsaw to address the issues that prompted the EU’s scrutiny.
The European Commission revealed its intention to withdraw the procedure initiated in December 2017 under Article 7 of the Treaty on European Union, following remedial actions taken by Poland’s new centrist government.
Commission President Ursula von der Leyen hailed the development as a “new chapter for Poland,” expressing her congratulations to Prime Minister Donald Tusk and his government for the progress made in resolving the longstanding dispute.
Poland’s reaction to the decision was one of relief and optimism. Funds and Regional Policy Minister Katarzyna Pelczynska-Nalecz described it as “good news for Poland,” asserting that it strengthens the country’s position within the European Union and removes the shadow cast over it in recent years.
The Article 7 procedure was initiated in response to controversial measures implemented by Poland’s previous right-wing government, including the establishment of a special disciplinary chamber with authority over judges and a ruling challenging the primacy of EU law over Polish national law. These actions were perceived by Brussels as undermining democratic principles and jeopardizing the rule of law within the EU.
However, with the ascent of a new pro-EU government under Prime Minister Donald Tusk, Poland embarked on a path of judicial reforms and reaffirmed its commitment to EU principles. Consequently, the European Commission determined that the risk of a serious breach of the rule of law in Poland has diminished, paving the way for the withdrawal of the Article 7 procedure.
The commission’s decision is subject to approval at the next meeting of the EU’s European Affairs ministers scheduled for May 21. If endorsed, the commission will formally withdraw its Article 7 action, signifying a significant milestone in the resolution of the dispute between Poland and the EU.
