EU Court Rules: Poland's Judicial Independence in Question

The European Union's top court ruled that Poland's Constitutional Tribunal is neither independent nor impartial due to irregularities in judicial appointments under the Law and Justice party. Poland's judicial reforms challenged the rule of law, raising significant legal tensions with the EU.

The European Union's top court has delivered a critical ruling against Poland's Constitutional Tribunal, citing its failure to uphold fundamental European law principles. Stemming from irregularities in judge appointments, the Tribunal, influenced by the nationalist Law and Justice (PiS) party, lacks independence and impartiality.

Between 2015 and 2023, the PiS party's judicial reforms drew criticism for creating disarray in Poland's judiciary and defying EU law primacy. The EU Court of Justice condemned Poland for undermining judicial protection and the consistent application of EU law.

Efforts by Poland's current government to reverse these reforms remain obstructed, with resistance from nationalist leaders. Justice Minister Waldemar Zurek awaits the EU court ruling to push for changes, including appointing independent judges to restore Tribunal legitimacy.

(With inputs from agencies.)