EU urges Poland to ensure Constitutional Tribunal functions properly

The European Commission has called on Polish authorities to ensure the Constitutional Tribunal functions properly, in line with the country's constitution and EU court rulings. Justice Commissioner Michael McGrath made the statement on Sunday, November 1. Brussels emphasized that appointing new Tribunal judges falls under the constitutional powers of the Polish Sejm. McGrath stressed that Polish authorities are responsible for ensuring the Tribunal operates according to national law and EU Court practice, while the Commission closely monitors the situation. McGrath referenced the Venice Commission's October 13, 2026 opinion affirming the Sejm's competence in appointments, and the European Court of Human Rights' May 5, 2026 interim measures requiring Poland not to obstruct judges elected in March. He stated that Polish citizens expect full respect for the rule of law.