Polish Sejm Marshal Szymon Hołownia met UN Secretary‑General Antonio Guterres in New York on 5 October; the talks focused on refugee policy, not a career move.
Meeting with the UN Secretary‑General
Szymon Hołownia, leader of the Polska 2050 party, visited New York on 5 October to meet UN Secretary‑General Antonio Guterres. He clarified that he is not being considered for the position of High Commissioner for Refugees, a role he has applied for. Hołownia praised the discussion as very positive and said the selection process will take another month or so. He noted that the deadline for applications is 6 October and that current candidates come from Iraq, France, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland. The ultimate decision lies with the Secretary‑General and must be ratified by the General Assembly.
Details of the Encounter
In a TVP interview, Hołownia said Guterres asked him about the situation in Poland with President Nawrocki and Prime Minister Tusk. He stressed that the meeting was not a job interview and that discussions focused on the UN’s role as a symbol of hope beyond conflict zones. He highlighted a shared background with Guterres in church‑related organisations, describing the meeting as introductory and reassuring. When asked about chemistry, Hołowni replied that he sensed it. Guterres also commented that Hołowni is well regarded by both the president and the prime minister, an uncommon compliment in polarized politics.
Travel Logistics and Official Status
Hołowni is currently in the United States and plans to attend the 88th Pułaski Parade on 5 October, organised by Polish diaspora groups. The Sejm office stated the trip is an official session of the Sejm Marshal and that meetings will occur during the visit. A government plane was used for the leg to Germany, after which he switched to a commercial flight. The cost of the visit is covered in the same manner as other official trips. Although a conversation with Guterres was planned, it remained uncertain until the last moment.
