After the Senate blocked his proposal for a national referendum on EU climate policy, President Karol Nawrocki announced he will submit a revised question to allow citizens to vote on the Green Deal.
The Senate Rejection
On Wednesday, the Senate denied consent for the president’s request to hold a referendum on EU climate policy, which was originally scheduled for September 27. The proposed question questioned whether citizens supported a climate policy that allegedly increased living costs, energy prices, and the burden on businesses and agriculture.
Presidential Response to Criticism
Responding to claims that his previous question was biased, President Nawrocki argued the matter is too significant to be derailed by phrasing. During a meeting in the Sokołów district, he confirmed plans to file a second request with a modified question to ensure the public can voice its stance.
Referendum as the Voice of the People
Nawrocki maintained that referendums are essential for citizens to express their opposition to the European Green Deal, rather than being left solely to expert discussions. He asserted that the Polish people have the right to formally reject European climate mandates.
Constitutional Requirements
The president claimed the Senate’s decision was not a personal attack but a disregard for public sentiment. Under the Polish Constitution, the president requires the absolute majority of the Senate to approve a national referendum, a threshold that was not reached in Wednesday’s vote.
