Polish PM Apologizes to Same-Sex Couples, Pledges Recognition of EU Marriages

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has issued a formal apology to same-sex couples for years of state-induced rejection and humiliation, pledging to implement court rulings requiring the recognition of same-sex marriages conducted in other EU member states. Speaking ahead of a cabinet meeting, Tusk emphasized that respecting human dignity and complying with European and Polish court decisions are government priorities. While acknowledging the lack of current statutory regulations, he committed to finding legal pathways for recognition as soon as possible. Concurrently, Warsaw’s mayor announced that the city would begin recognizing such marriages immediately, independent of national legislation. The implementation faces political hurdles, including potential vetoes from President Karol Nawrocki and reluctance within Tusk’s coalition. Tusk clarified that recognizing foreign marriages does not extend to adoption rights. This development follows pressure from over 100 NGOs criticizing the government's delay. Although Poland remains near the bottom of the EU’s LGBT+ rights rankings, it has recently improved its standing relative to Romania.