Law

Polish law still does not provide effective protection against hate crimes and hate speech — anyone can become a victim, and the lack of appropriate regulations amounts to tacit approval of violence and discrimination. After years of tolerating homophobia and transphobia, supported by the previous government and public media, amending the Criminal Code is necessary to ensure the safety of LGBT+ individuals and restore basic legal standards in Poland. On December 19, during a press conference in the Sejm, a joint statement on this matter was presented by 37 civil society organizations — acting as the Coalition for Equal Opportunities...

The Crowns of Equality (Korony Równości) are considered the most important awards granted in Poland for advocacy for the LGBT+ community. Vote in this year’s plebiscite by September 6th on www.koronyrownosci.pl (only in Polish).  The jury nominated individuals and groups who have a chance to receive this year’s Crown of Equality in one of several categories of the plebiscite: ☑️ Activism: Tęczowe Rodziny Foundation, Kazik Strzelec, Anna Matras, ☑️ Institutions: Marshal’s Office of the Lublin Voivodeship in Lublin, dr Kosma Kołodziej, Aleksander Miszalski, ☑️ Law: Anna Mazurczak, Marcin Pawelec-Jakowiecki, Koalicja na rzecz związków partnerskich i równości małżeńskiej, ☑️ Media: Tomasz-Marcin...

The Strasbourg Court has ordered Poland to recognize the rights of same-sex couples. The denial of civil unions and marriage equality is discrimination. “Mr. Prime Minister, let’s meet,” say LGBT+ organizations and lawyers. Today (December 12, 2023) the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) ruled in a case against Poland brought by five Polish same-sex couples seeking legal recognition of their relationships. The ruling states that Poland has violated the Convention and has an obligation to introduce legal protection for same-sex couples. The form of this protection shall be appropriate and shall protect same-sex couples effectively. The verdict comes after...