Poland must pay 1 million euros per day in rule-of-law dispute with EU

Poland must pay Brussels a penalty of 1 million euros a day for refusing to dissolve a controversial Disciplinary Chamber for judges. On Wednesday (27 October), the Court of Justice of the European Union imposed the fine on the EU member for ignoring a court ruling.

In July, the European Court ruled that Poland must suspend the Disciplinary Chamber because it violates the independence of the judiciary and is contrary to EU law. The European Commission had asked the Court for the punitive measure because the government in Warsaw would not budge in its long-running conflict with Brussels. The politicised disciplinary chamber in Poland punishes critical judges financially or removes them from office.

The imposition of the fine comes at a critical moment. Last week, during a summit meeting, European government leaders discussed possible financial sanctions by Brussels against Poland, because of rule of law concerns.

The Polish government is furious and speaks of "abuse of power and blackmail". The Court is "acting beyond its powers", says Deputy Minister of Justice, Sebastian Kaleta. Poland can refuse to transfer the penalty payment to the European Commission, but that does not help the country. The amount can also be withheld from EU grants the country receives.
 

source: commonspace.eu with agencies
photo: A pro-EU demonstration in Warsaw AFP

Related articles

Editor's choice
News
Borrell tells the European Parliament that the situation in Afghanistan was critical, but the EU will remain engaged

Borrell tells the European Parliament that the situation in Afghanistan was critical, but the EU will remain engaged

Borrell underlined that the European Union will make every effort to support the peace process and to remain a committed partner to the Afghan people. "Of course, we will have to take into account the evolving situation, but disengagement is not an option.  We are clear on that: there is no alternative to a negotiated political settlement, through inclusive peace talks.
Editor's choice
News
Robert Prevost, Chicago-born missionary, elected Pope Leo XIV

Robert Prevost, Chicago-born missionary, elected Pope Leo XIV

Robert Francis Prevost became the first pope from the United States on Thursday, picking the papal name Leo XIV after cardinals from around the world elected him leader of the world's 1.4 billion Catholics. Tens of thousands of people packed in St Peter's Square cheered as Prevost appeared on the balcony of St Peter's Basilica, waving with both hands, smiling and bowing. "Peace by with you," he told the crowds, before beginning his first address, where he called for "building bridges".

Popular

Editor's choice
News
Robert Prevost, Chicago-born missionary, elected Pope Leo XIV

Robert Prevost, Chicago-born missionary, elected Pope Leo XIV

Robert Francis Prevost became the first pope from the United States on Thursday, picking the papal name Leo XIV after cardinals from around the world elected him leader of the world's 1.4 billion Catholics. Tens of thousands of people packed in St Peter's Square cheered as Prevost appeared on the balcony of St Peter's Basilica, waving with both hands, smiling and bowing. "Peace by with you," he told the crowds, before beginning his first address, where he called for "building bridges".