Love Does Not Exclude, an association representing Poland’s LGBTQ+ community, is cautiously optimistic about the future for LGBTQ+ rights in Poland following the rejection of the right-wing Law and Justice party in the recent election. While happy that the oppressive party will no longer govern, spokesperson Hubert Sobecki is skeptical that Donald Tusk’s Civic Coalition will bring about significant change for the LGBTQ+ community. Sobecki has witnessed numerous governments and parties ignore LGBTQ+ people in the country, so he is cautiously hopeful rather than expecting immediate change. Sobecki recalls that Tusk, a former prime minister, treated the LGBTQ+ community as a problem rather than a group with whom he could work, and his organization remains uncertain about the true intentions of Tusk’s Civic Coalition.
The article also highlights skepticism from abortion rights advocates, who are unsure if the new government will fully support their cause. Poland’s current government has severely restricted abortion rights, and advocates have had to take illegal actions to save lives. While a liberal government may mean an end to police visits and harassment, law changes to protect women’s right to abortion are not guaranteed. Natalia Broniarczyk, an abortion rights advocate, doubts that the new government will take a strong stand on legalizing abortion on demand. She recalls Tusk, who may become prime minister again, making promises regarding legal abortion in the past but not delivering on them. Broniarczyk is hopeful that the new government will exceed expectations and take decisive action, but she remains cautious and realistic about the work still to be done.
In conclusion, both LGBTQ+ rights and abortion rights advocates in Poland express cautious optimism about the recent change in government. While they are relieved to see the oppressive Law and Justice party lose power, they harbor doubts about the new government’s commitment to their causes. Both groups have experienced disappointment in the past, with promises unfulfilled, and believe that significant work is still needed to achieve their desired goals. They remain hopeful but are aware that change may not come easily or quickly.
