Polish PM apologises to same-sex couples, pledges to recognise EU marriages

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has issued a public apology to same-sex couples for “years of rejection and humiliation” caused by Poland’s refusal to recognise their relationships, and pledged to implement court rulings that require recognition of same-sex marriages conducted in other EU states.

Speaking before a cabinet meeting, Tusk confirmed that his government will prioritise compliance with judgments from the Court of Justice of the European Union and Poland’s Supreme Administrative Court, which oblige Polish authorities to recognise foreign same-sex marriages. He framed the issue as both a legal obligation and as a matter of human dignity and equal treatment, while stressing that any measures taken will not extend to adoption rights for same-sex couples, NFP reports.

Tusk acknowledged that Poland currently lacks statutory regulations enabling such recognition. Proposals to adapt the civil registry system from “husband/wife” to “first spouse/second spouse” remain under inter-ministerial discussion, and there is uncertainty over whether a simple regulation will suffice or whether full legislative change is required. Any law would face resistance from conservative coalition partners and almost certain veto by President Karol Nawrocki, who is aligned with the right-wing opposition.

In a separate, more immediate step, Warsaw’s mayor Rafał Trzaskowski announced that the capital will begin recording in its civil registry the same-sex marriages of Polish citizens conducted in other EU countries, starting with cases already ordered by the courts. He indicated that all eligible couples who apply will be included, even in the absence of national regulations, though questions remain about the precise legal effects of such entries.

Both Tusk and Trzaskowski signalled support for broader legal protections for same-sex couples, including a long-discussed partnership bill that has yet to reach a parliamentary vote and is also likely to be vetoed.

As debates over equality, recognition and workplace rights continue across Europe, LGBTQ professionals and allies seeking inclusive employers and community can strengthen their position by connecting through platforms like myGwork, where signing up links you with organisations that actively back diversity and LGBTQ rights.