From centre of attention to centre of gravity : implications of the Polish parliamentary elections for its democracy and security policy

Abstract

The parliamentary election held in Poland on 15 October 2023 ended the eight-year-long rule of the Law and Justice Party. This policy brief discusses the results of the election indicating key factors that contributed to the seizure of power by the democratic opposition and summarises the impact that the Law and Justice-led governments had on the quality of democracy in Poland, particularly on rule of law and media freedom. The analysis then outlines the challenges and necessary steps the new Polish government, led by Donald Tusk, should take to restore democratic principles and strengthen the country's security position.