WASHINGTON, July 20, 2017 — Legislation currently under consideration in the Polish parliament would allow the immediate removal of Supreme Court judges in Poland, a move that could significantly undermine judicial independence. The proposal follows other troubling developments, including the government’s refusal to seat judges properly appointed to the Constitutional Tribunal and to comply with judgments of the tribunal.
An independent judiciary is a vital check and balance in a democratic society and essential to maintaining the rule of law. The ABA will be closely monitoring the situation and supporting efforts to preserve the independence of the judiciary in Poland.