The Association of Journalists of the Republic of Poland has formally protested the use of media credentials by former Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro to navigate visa and residency procedures.
Contesting the Journalist Label
As reported by “Press” magazine, the Association of Journalists of the Republic of Poland (SDRP) issued a statement condemning Zbigniew Ziobro for allegedly using the status of a journalist as a political tool. The organization explicitly stated its opposition to the former minister, who is currently avoiding the justice system, using professional media activity to secure special residency or visa status.
The Association emphasized that the profession of a journalist cannot serve as a ruse or a cover for bypassing legal procedures. Under Polish press law, the role of a journalist is to serve society, adhering to professional ethics, integrity, and responsibility, which the organization argues Ziobro fails to meet.
The Phenomenon of Media Impersonators
The SDRP board warned that the trend of individuals masquerading as journalists to achieve political or personal goals requires a firm response from the media community. While noting that Polish law lacks specific sanctions for simply impersonating a journalist, the board highlighted that filing false statements or misrepresenting identity constitutes a crime.
Referring to the European Convention on Human Rights, the Association pointed out that freedom of the media is contingent upon the actual performance of an information function in the public interest, rather than exploiting a label to gain personal benefits or circumvent the law.
Legal Investigations and US Status
Earlier this year, the National Prosecutor’s Office inquired with the Association of Polish Journalists (SDP) regarding Ziobro’s membership status, though the organization declined to provide information citing privacy laws. Ziobro, who is a suspect in a criminal investigation concerning the Justice Fund, confirmed in May that he is in the United States.
Ziobro reportedly entered the U.S. using a visa intended for “foreign media members” and announced plans to work as a commentator for TV Republika. In Poland, prosecutors allege that while serving as Minister of Justice, he led an organized criminal group and oversaw the misappropriation of public funds through the Justice Fund.