On Tuesday, September 16, both the Social Policy & Family Commission and Public Safety & Order Commission gave negative feedback on proposals for a nighttime alcohol ban in Warsaw, while fractures within the ruling coalition deepen.
Negativity Surge Against Nighttime Alcohol Ban in Warsaw
Two proposals for a nighttime alcohol ban in Warsaw’s stores have received negative feedback from the Social Policy & Family Commission and the Public Safety & Order Commission. While the opinion of these committees is not binding, it could influence the decision of city councilmembers, which will be made on Thursday, September 18.
Coalition Fractures Over Contentious Issue
The rift between Warsaw’s government and the Civic Coalition grows, as councilmembers continue to question the effectiveness of an alcohol ban. Of the city’s 18 districts, 14 were against implementing such a ban in August.
Prohibition’s Positive Impact on Other Cities
Melania Łuczak of Miasto Jest Nasze pointed out that Kraków experienced a 70% decrease in police intervention rates and a 34% decrease in municipal police response when prohibition was implemented from 2022-2025. Similar results were seen in Olsztyn, Wrocław, and Gdańsk.
