A Warsaw court will examine former Polish President Andrzej Duda’s comments made in September 2023, following a complaint that the remarks violated personal dignity and promoted hate.
Trial in Warsaw Court
On Friday morning, October 24, a remote hearing was scheduled before the Regional Court in Warsaw. The lawsuit was filed by the Center for Monitoring of Racist and Xenophobic Behavior (OMZ RIK).
Allegations Against Duda
The complaint accuses the former president of violating personal rights and propagating hate speech. The center demands an apology and a contribution to a social fund.
Context of Duda’s Comments
During a September 2023 appearance on TVP’s “Gość Wiadomości”, Duda criticized the Border Guard’s reaction to a film by Agnieszka Holland. He said the film portrayed Polish officers in a negative light, using the phrase “only pigs sit in the bunker,” and claimed it blackened those performing their duties. He also stated that the Border Guard protects Poles from hybrid attacks.
Arguments From Both Sides
OMZ RIK argues the remarks amount to unacceptable propaganda reminiscent of occupation‑era propaganda. Duda’s defenders maintain that the statements were mere political opinion within the bounds of permissible criticism.
