ECRI report on the situation regarding racism and intolerance in Poland
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The European Commission against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI) has published a new report focusing on the monitoring of the situation regarding racism and intolerance in Poland. The report is the result of the sixth round of monitoring of Poland as a member of the Council of Europe.
ECRI, an institution established by the Council of Europe, serves as an independent human rights monitoring body. Its activities focus on combating racism, discrimination, xenophobia, anti-Semitism and intolerance.
The current ECRI report, which focuses on Poland, analyses three key areas: effective equality and access to rights; hate speech and hate-motivated violence; and integration and social inclusion. This comprehensive perspective takes into account document analysis, field visits and confidential dialogue with national authorities.
ECRI's report is intended to serve not only as an account, but also as a tool for dialogue and action to improve the situation. It contains specific recommendations and conclusions and urges the Polish authorities to prioritise the implementation of certain recommendations, while ensuring a temporary monitoring process of their implementation.
With regard to Poland since the adoption of the fifth report in 2015, ECRI recognises progress in the fight against hate speech. Positive assessments include legislative changes, such as stricter penalties for promoting totalitarianism, and initiatives such as police training on anti-Semitism. The model of immigrant integration in Gdansk is highlighted as a successful example of integration. However, ECRI is concerned about the pressure on the Ombudsman for Civil Rights, the lack of emphasis on equality values in schools, and the absence of issues related to hate speech related to sexual orientation in the Criminal Code. Recommendations cover the protection of migrants, anti-discrimination education and measures in favour of the Roma community.
We encourage you to familiarise yourself with the full contents of the report in English.
