Donald Tusk reflects on his first year as Poland’s Prime Minister, acknowledging challenges in fulfilling campaign promises amid tensions with President Duda. Discontent among citizens, particularly regarding abortion rights, and legislative obstacles hinder progress. Despite these setbacks, Tusk has achieved gains in media independence, economic recovery, and strengthened international relations, positioning Poland as a key player in Europe. His administration hopes for change in the upcoming presidential election, which could reshape the political landscape.
Reflecting on a Year of Change: Donald Tusk’s Journey as Poland’s Prime Minister
When Donald Tusk assumed the role of Prime Minister of Poland a year ago, he was met with immense expectations. Now, twelve months later, the challenges of transformation have become evident, particularly due to ongoing tensions with President Duda.
On October 15, marking one year since his election, Tusk provided a candid evaluation of his tenure. He expressed gratitude to the Polish populace for their ‘patience and endurance during this tumultuous first year,’ acknowledging that he understands their feelings of impatience and frustration.
His self-awareness highlights the reality that many of his campaign promises remain unfulfilled. Tusk had set high expectations, with many Polish citizens viewing him almost as a savior in the lead-up to the election.
The change in government was accompanied by an air of revolution among many citizens who were hopeful for significant reforms under Tusk’s leadership, especially after the right-wing populist party, PiS, was ousted from power.
Growing Discontent Among Coalition Partners
As Tusk’s administration progresses, many Poles—particularly women—are experiencing growing disillusionment. Tusk had committed to easing the strict abortion laws, a key factor in garnering their support. Unfortunately, progress has been stalled due to disagreements within the coalition, which includes more conservative factions. Tusk admitted in August, ‘There will be no majority for legal abortion in the full sense of the word in this parliament until the next election. Let’s not kid ourselves.’
This ambition to liberalize abortion rights is causing friction within the coalition, complicating Tusk’s ability to deliver on a promise that resonated deeply with voters.
Presidential Roadblocks
Additionally, Tusk aimed to swiftly restore the rule of law in the judiciary, which had been manipulated by the previous PiS administration. However, the new government appears to have underestimated President Duda’s influence in the legislative process. Tusk’s initiatives are facing significant hurdles due to Duda’s unwavering loyalty to PiS, leading to a complete blockade of proposed reforms.
Duda has denounced Tusk’s efforts, calling it the ‘terror of the rule of law’ as he vetoes every legislative proposal from Tusk’s government. The alterations made to the judiciary under PiS have rendered many reform efforts legally challenging, making substantial changes difficult without risking legal violations.
Hope for Change in 2024
During a recent party congress, Tusk voiced his frustrations about Duda’s obstructions, stating, ‘Imagine how much faster, better, and easier the reconstruction of Poland would be if there were not this constant civil war, this constant throwing of stumbling blocks, this sowing of sand in the gears.’
Poland is in need of a president who recognizes his independent role and values collaboration with the government and citizens alike. A potential shift could occur in May of the following year if a new president is elected, particularly if a candidate who distances himself from PiS emerges victorious.
Progress in Media and Economy
Despite these obstacles, Tusk has achieved notable successes. Public media, once dominated by the PiS narrative, are now functioning with greater independence, even without a formal law restructuring their operations. This shift has faced challenges from President Duda as well.
Moreover, the dismissal of PiS-aligned managers in state-owned enterprises and the establishment of parliamentary investigative committees are steps toward holding former politicians accountable for past legal breaches—a key promise made to the electorate.
Strengthening International Relations
Economically, Tusk has also made strides. The European Commission released billions in COVID-19 recovery funds shortly after his tenure began, which had previously been frozen due to rule of law issues under PiS.
However, Tusk’s most significant accomplishments lie in foreign relations. He has redefined Poland’s position within the EU and strengthened ties with Western European partners. Security policy initiatives, especially concerning Eastern relations, have positioned Poland as a pivotal player in Europe.
‘Especially in the area of security policy with a view to the East, Poland has proven that it plays a new role in Europe,’ notes Agnieszka Lada from the German-Polish Institute.
Through forging alliances with the Baltic states, Scandinavia, and France, Tusk is signaling that Poland is capable of independent action, even without German involvement. His recent meetings with other European leaders underscore this new dynamic, suggesting a shift away from the traditional teacher-student relationship in German-Polish affairs.
Tusk has indicated that discussions may commence as early as this winter, indicating a proactive approach to governance amidst a challenging political landscape.