On January 1st, Poland assumed the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union. After six months of Viktor Orbán’s presidency, the new year brings a semblance of “normalcy” back to the EU.

Under the motto “Security, Europe!”, the primary focus will be on strengthening Europe’s security. Although the protection of the rule of law is not explicitly listed among the seven priorities of the program, the Polish presidency emphasizes that safeguarding it is crucial, especially in light of current external and internal challenges.

The presidency intends to draw on its own experiences and highlight the role of civil society and media in protecting the rule of law. However, as usual, the 52-page program remains vague when it comes to specific measures.

Daniel Freund, Member of the European Parliament for the Greens, comments:

“With the end of Viktor Orbán’s Council presidency, a sense of normalcy returns to the European Union. Seven months after the European elections, it’s time to get back to legislative work. Poland is taking the helm during turbulent times for Europe. Expectations for Donald Tusk are enormous.”

“Unfortunately, under Polish leadership, important EU reforms also risk being left behind. An EU Convention to finally abolish national vetoes in foreign policy matters is not on the agenda. As a result, this security risk – repeatedly exploited by Viktor Orbán – will persist for the EU. Yet it is crucial now to make the EU capable of action.”

“In the coming six months, Donald Tusk’s government will also need to rebuild a great deal of trust that was lost during years of the anti-democratic PiS government at the EU level.”

The full program of the Council Presidency is available here (in English):
Programme of the Presidency