In consequence to the results of the elections in Poland, many German politicians and commentators expressed concerns about the future of bilateral relations and the EU direction of Warsaw.
German abroad Minister Annalena Baerbock (Greens) in a short message for the diary Süddeutsche Zeitung stated:
"Poland is simply a strategical partner in the Union and in NATO. We anticipate the fresh president to respect European values, including the regulation of law, the independency of the judiciary and media freedom."
In turn opposition leader CDU Friedrich Merz in conversation with FAZ He admitted that Nawrocki's election could be "a sign of increasing frustration of many citizens of Central and east Europe towards Brussels decision-making centre", although, he added, "we anticipate stableness and work from Poland as a neighbour".
Think tank experts specified as Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik propose that Nawrock's word of office may be "full friction with the European Commission, as was the case in the days of Duda", and Germany should "be prepared for long-term, shaky bilateral cooperation".
Poland in the eyes of the German press – the transformation of an ally or the origin of instability?
Commentators in Germany note that Poland has come a long way – from a model student of European integration to a country that is increasingly contesting Community rules. In the context of Karol Nawrocki's election, they ask: is Poland becoming a "difficult partner" or a expressor of a wider political temper in Europe?
Columnist Die Welt writes:
"Poland does not want to be just a contractor of the decision from Brussels. Nawrocks embody what “syphernality” means to many Poles present – strong national voice in the global debate, even if it means confrontation.”
In turn Tagesspiegel emphasises that Nawrocki may attract attention to akin movements in another countries:
"His triumph may dare anti-establishment forces in Romania, Slovakia or Italy. But it can besides force the Union to rethink its approach to associate States that are going their own way."
Journalists besides point out that in the event of a clear dispute with the EU, Poland may effort to balance between Berlin, Brussels and Washington – as Hungary under Viktor Orbán did.
A summary of respective selected media articles from behind Odra:
I realize – here is an improved version of the analysis of six articles from German media, only with Polish translations of quotes and full content:
1. Der Spiegel – "Right-right-conservative candidate Karol Nawrocki wins somewhat presidential elections in Poland"
Der Spiegel presents elections as a minute of political solstice. They stress that Nawrocki's triumph – supported by the Law and Justice, but formally unpartisan – announces changes in Poland's interior and abroad policy. Journalists remind that as President, it will have a real impact on the legislative process and may block reforms of the Tusk Government.
"The triumph of 42-year-old Eurosceptics can announce changes in Polish policy course."
The article focuses on the hazard of political stalemate, confrontation with Brussels and possible deterioration of relations with Germany.
2. Die Zeit – "Right-wing nationalist Karol Nawrocki wins presidential elections in Poland"
Die Zeit does not wrap it in cotton – uses sharp language, identifying Nawrocki as a nationalist. The author draws attention to the very tiny difference in votes and historical attendance. He stresses that Nawrocki announced the cessation of the strengthening of Tusk's power and the defence of conventional values.
“We will not let Donald Tusk's power to strengthen – we will save Poland.”
The article besides points to the possible end of Poland's support for Ukraine and the deepening of Poland's isolation within the EU if Nawrocki implements his announcements.
3. Tagesschau – "Right-wing Conservative Nawrocki leads in presidential election"
The study from the election evening shows how the forecasts changed: he initially won Trzaskowski, but after 2 hours Nawrocki moved to the lead. The ARD reporter quotes Trzaskowski, who felt that the elections were deciding “on the razor blade” – so dramatic was the situation.
The diary besides describes Nawrocki's emotional speech, which began with a paraphrase of a biblical quote, announcing the country's moral renewal:
“We want to save Poland from the bad course of the current power.”
Tagesschau draws attention to the spiritual and patriotic speech of his run and the harsh criticism of migration and liberal reforms.
4. Focus Online – "51 to 49! Right-wing nationalist wins in Polish elections about the destiny of the country”
Focus describes the election as a "political thriller", drawing attention to a very tiny difference and evidence mobilisation. The portal immediately classifys elections as a breakthrough minute – both for Poland and for Europe as a whole.
They stress that Nawrocki is simply a political debutant who sought support from Donald Trump and opposed further support for Ukraine.
"This could be a major blow to the Tusk course and to pro-European and pro-equality policies."
Focus adds that Nawrocki can block any “reform” concerning abortion, LGBT rights and the separation of the state from the Church, as well as promising a tough policy towards migrants and independency towards Brussels.
5. Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung – "Definition: Polish media announce right-wing conservative victory"
FAZ retains a restrained tone, but the title itself suggests that the media in Poland has overtaken the authoritative announcement of the results. The editorial attention is paid to the dynamic change in the election situation and the function the media played in shaping the communicative of Nawrocki's victory.
The article focuses on the division of the country and on the possible confrontation between the president and Parliament, which could lead to further organization tensions – akin to those of the presidency of Duda.
6. Die Zeit (second article) – "Presidential elections in Poland: Temptation of authoritarianism returns"
This second material in Die Zeit takes the form of a public essay. The editorial warns that Nawrocki's triumph is not just a rotation of power, but may mean “back to the model of the authoritarian state”.
“The temptation of authoritarianism in Poland has not only survived – present it is stronger than ever.”
The article evokes Orbán's rule, support by the US during the Trump period and distrust of the EU as elements that Nawrocki can replicate. This is simply a strong informing that Poland can become a “model to follow” for another “popular” movements in Europe.
