‘The European Union must be changed’: Poland’s main opposition leader floats EU exit negotiations a year before the country’s election

A year before Poland's general election, its main opposition leader, Jarosław Kaczyński, suggested that nationalist-led countries could negotiate to leave the European Union to pressure it into returning powers to member states. Kaczyński, leader of the national-conservative Law and Justice party, told an economic forum in southern Poland that EU institutions have too much influence.

He proposed that national parliamentarians monitor EU bodies for law violations, but warned that France and Spain's upcoming elections, which could see far-right politicians come to power, might open the door to change. Kaczyński suggested a new treaty could be drafted for later implementation while EU withdrawal talks began, a last resort if necessary.

His comments drew criticism from Poland's pro-European Prime Minister, Donald Tusk, who accused Kaczyński of misrepresenting his intentions. Kaczyński denied this, stating Poland wants to benefit ordinary citizens, not elites. Poland, a NATO member and EU growth engine, has been embroiled in conflicts with EU institutions over the rule of law and human rights since 2015, when Kaczyński's party governed.

With polls suggesting a return to power if allied with far-right groups, Kaczyński promised his EU reform agenda focused on improving citizens' lives, reducing energy costs, enhancing security, and streamlining migration and agriculture policies.