A recent poll shows that 86.5 percent of respondents view the referendum question proposed by Karol Nawrocki regarding the European Union’s climate policy as biased and leading.
Public assessment of the proposed question
“Are you in favor of implementing the EU climate policy, which has led to an increase in the cost of living for citizens, energy prices, and the costs of conducting business and farming?” This is the proposed wording for the referendum ballot. Following public discourse on the subject, we surveyed our readers to gauge their opinion on the phrasing of the question.
In our survey, the overwhelming majority of voters described the question proposed by Karol Nawrocki as biased. Specifically, 86.51 percent of the 6,144 participants labeled it as such, while 11.44 percent found it neutral, and 2.05 percent had no opinion. These results were collected on May 19, 2026.
Legal requirements for the referendum process
The proposal of a referendum does not guarantee it will take place. For the process to move forward, the Polish Senate must approve it by an absolute majority, with at least half of the senators present. Furthermore, the referendum would only be considered binding if voter turnout exceeds 50 percent of eligible citizens.
Background of the European Green Deal
Announced by the European Commission in 2019, the European Green Deal aims to reach climate neutrality by 2050. A core objective includes reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55 percent by 2030 compared to 1990 levels, affecting sectors such as energy, transport, industry, and agriculture.
The debate surrounding these policies persists across the European Union. While supporters advocate for energy transformation and technological innovation, critics consistently highlight the financial burdens placed on households, businesses, and farmers, keeping energy prices and climate policy at the forefront of European public debate.