The European Commission launched an investigation against Poland

The European Commission (EC) has begun the process of eliminating violations of European standards in the field of independence of the judiciary in Poland.  This was announced on Wednesday by the deputy head of the European Commission Vera Yurova at a daily video briefing.

 "The European Commission has begun the procedure for eliminating a violation against Poland in connection with a law that entered into force on February 14, 2020, which amended the procedure for the performance of duties by judges. The European Commission believes that the new disciplinary regime against judges can be used to exert political pressure on the judicial system  "- said Yurova.

 She also added that this decision "was not a surprise to anyone, since the European Commission has already informed Poland of its concerns about this bill."

 Earlier in Poland, on the initiative of the ruling Law and Justice party, a draft law on judicial reform was adopted, which caused controversy in the community and led to protests and criticism from the European Commission.  The essence of the reform, in particular, is to introduce the disciplinary liability of judges for actions or inaction that could impede or significantly impede the functioning of the judiciary, as well as for actions of a political nature.  The opposition called this initiative "repressive law."  The party’s authorities believe that reform is necessary and supported by society, which "is waiting for the end of chaos and disorder in the courts."

 An analysis of the reform was presented by the Supreme Court of Poland, which concluded that these actions could lead to the expulsion of the country from the European Union.  According to the Supreme Court, the decisions of the party in power contradict both the law of the EU and the constitution of the republic.