Poland: Nationwide protests against judicial changes July 24 /update 1

Event

Hundreds of people demonstrated in cities throughout the country on Tuesday, July 24, to protest a controversial judicial reform law, which the Senate passed in the early hours (local time) of Wednesday, July 25. Additional protests are possible in the coming days and weeks. Heightened security measures and localized traffic disruptions are expected near demonstrations sites.

Context

On Wednesday, July 25, the Senate passed a bill which will accelerate the process of replacing the Supreme Court chief justice; the latest move taken by parliament to overhaul the country's judicial system.

On July 4, a bill entered into effect, forcing 27 of the country's 72 Supreme Court justices into early retirement and increasing the number of justices from 72 to 120. According to critics, the move will undermine judicial independence in the country, and allow for the ruling Law and Justice Party (PiS) to fill vacant positions Supreme Court positions with judges supportive of their policies.

Advice

Individuals in Poland, especially in Warsaw, are advised to avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, prepare for traffic disruptions, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.