Poland’s newly inaugurated President, Karol Nawrocki, officially assumed his role on August 6, 2025, in a dramatic shift toward conservative and nationalist politics. Nawrocki emphasized “traditional values” during his inaugural speech, distancing himself from progressive reforms on issues such as immigration and abortion.
This political pivot comes at a critical moment: Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s coalition has sought to expand abortion access, proposing legislation decriminalising the procedure up to 12 weeks and restoring exceptions for foetal abnormalities. That proposed shift, however, now faces formidable resistance. Nawrocki has pledged to veto any liberalising of abortion laws, signalling a renewed safeguard for Poland’s near-total ban.
From a pro‑life perspective, SPUC see this as a moment of affirmation. SPUC commends the preservation of Poland’s protective stance toward the unborn as a model for pro‑life advocacy worldwide. They argue that maintaining a legal regime that respects life, even if imperfect, is far preferable to legal liberalisation that weakens society’s respect for the most vulnerable. SPUC emphasizes that such legislative vetoes reinforce a vital principle: no law should sanction the termination of innocent human life.
At the same time, SPUC warns that pro‑life victories are not merely defensive. They call on Poland, and other pro‑life nations, to accompany policy protection with robust support systems. This includes enhancing access to prenatal care, counselling for expectant mothers and disability accommodations. For SPUC, moral and legal advances must be matched by cultural affirmation of life.
Poland’s new presidency also signals broader cultural implications. The country’s reaffirmation of pro‑life values under a nationalist, Catholic-aligned president may encourage similarly situated nations to reassert protections for the unborn. SPUC suggests the moment is ripe for pro‑life organisations to foster international partnerships that support life-affirming policies and reject the commodification of human existence. In the tumultuous Polish political landscape, SPUC sees both challenge and opportunity. While Nawrocki’s presidency may stall liberal abortion expansions, pro‑life advocates must remain vigilant, seeking not only to preserve legal protections but to build a caring infrastructure that supports life at every stage.
