Professor Adam Strzembosz, a former judge and law professor, died on the night of October 9‑10, 2024, at age 95, hailed as a legend of Poland’s justice system.
Death
Professor Adam Strzembosz passed away between Thursday and Friday, October 9–10, 2024, at the age of 95. News of his death was announced by Judge Stanisław Zabłocki and European Parliament member Andrzej Halicki.
Early Life and Education
Born in Warsaw on 11 September 1930, Strzembosz studied secretly during World War II and later attended the Municipal Gymnasium and High School in Falenica. He joined the Polish Scouting Association and the Polish Youth Association before enrolling at Jagiellonian University in Kraków. After three years he transferred to the University of Warsaw, earning a master’s degree in international public law.
Judicial and Academic Career
In 1958 he cleared the judiciary exam and became an assessor of the Warsaw‑Praga District Court, later appointed judge in January 1961. Strzembosz taught at the Catholic University of Lublin and was active in organizing independent trade‑union structures within the Ministry of Justice in 1980. He served on the Presidium of the Coordination Commission of Solidarity’s National Labour Union and headed the Ministry’s Factory Commission.
Legacy and Recognition
Known for steadfast ethical views and extensive experience under communism, he earned the title “legend of the justice system.” During attempts to undermine Poland’s independent judiciary, Minister of Justice Waldemar Żurek described him as a “person who stayed firm to his convictions.” Strzembosz was also a Knight of the Order of the White Eagle.