The Intermarium Brief
Poland:
Following the general elections in October, the anti-PiS coalition, which won a majority, have initiated a transition of power from the outgoing nationalist cabinet. Szymon Holownia, from Poland 2050, part of the centre-right Third Way, was elected as the Speaker of the lower house, a position of significant legislative influence.
President Andrzej Duda, considered an ally of the nationalist-populist Law and Justice party, played a pivotal role during this transition. He formally appointed Mateusz Morawiecki as Prime Minister, representing the Law and Justice party, and stated his readiness to use his veto power when necessary.
The Law and Justice party, despite winning the largest number of seats (194) in the election, lost its parliamentary majority. The party now has 14 days to win a vote of confidence and form a government, which is challenged by the pro-EU coalition led by Donald Tusk.
It’s a bit complicated. I described the new government formation process here.
The incoming government, expected to be led by Donald Tusk, plans to focus on mending ties with the European Union and unlocking funds that have been frozen over rule-of-law infringements. Donald Tusk promised these funds would be unblocked as soon as he is elected. However, it may be more difficult than that.
Among the coalition parties, there are shared positions on security, transitioning to greener energy, and raising public sector wages. However, abortion legislation remains a contentious issue. While some parties within the coalition support the liberalization of Poland's restrictive abortion laws, others are more conservative.
Czech Republic: