What’s Next for Poland?
As in 1989, the run-up to Poland’s general election this month was marked by a widespread sentiment that the stakes could not be higher. Now that the democratic opposition has prevailed, despite massive structural disadvantages, it is sure to face additional hurdles, from economic constraints to political foul play.
WARSAW – This wasn’t supposed to happen. With sweeping control over state financial resources and public and local media, Poland’s populist ruling party, Law and Justice (PiS), had a massive structural advantage in this month’s parliamentary election. It should have won handily and continued consolidating its illiberal, anti-democratic rule.