Die Welt’s correspondent Philipp Fritz argues that Poland’s record‑breaking economy has not translated into political strength for Prime Minister Donald Tusk, whose coalition enjoys only 29 % support.
Economic Growth Beats Germany, Yet Support Remains Low
Poland’s GDP is projected to reach $1.04 trillion in 2025, propelling it past Switzerland as the 20th‑largest economy and marking a 3.4 % growth rate, the highest in recent European history. Yet Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s governing coalition is only supported by 29 % of voters.
Modern Warsaw Signifies Prosperity, Yet Populist Grievances Persist
New skyscrapers dominate the capital, symbolising prosperity that “Poles earn more and live better,” according to Fritz. Polish firms are no longer merely partners of German and French conglomerates, and a restrictive migration policy is broadly accepted. Defense spending remains 5 % of GDP.
Failed Promises Undermine Political Momentum
During the campaign Tusk pledged to liberalise abortion law and reverse judicial reforms, but none of those promises have been fulfilled. The Civic Coalition’s anti‑PiS rhetoric lacks a clear, positive agenda, leaving many voters unsure of his intentions.
Center‑Governments Struggle to Sell Successes Across Europe
Konrad Adenauer Foundation president Tomasz Delinic notes that centre‑led administrations in many countries find it hard to sell their economic progress, as moderate forces face pressure from populist rivals.
President Nawrocki’s Victory Shocks Reform Agenda
Karol Nawrocki’s presidential win in 2025 strengthens the centrists within Tusk’s coalition but leaves them without a plan to deal with a president from an opposing camp who blocks reforms, deepening electoral frustration.
Call for Compromise or Bypassing the President
Fritz concludes that Tusk must either compromise with President Nawrocki or bypass him in the governing process; otherwise his poll support will stay low and the coalition risks an electoral defeat.
