Poland held a crucial presidential runoff election on June 1st, a vote that will significantly shape the nation’s future trajectory and its relationship with the European Union. The contest pitted two starkly contrasting candidates against each other: Rafał Trzaskowski, the liberal pro-EU Warsaw Mayor, and Karol Nawrocki, a conservative historian representing the right-wing Law and Justice Party.

This election carries immense weight, as the outcome will decide whether Poland steers towards a more nationalistic path or embraces liberal policies. With President Andrzej Duda completing his second term, the newly elected president will hold considerable influence over Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s centrist government. The president’s power of veto will play a pivotal role in determining whether the government can effectively implement its agenda.

The election results will have far-reaching consequences, not only for Poland’s domestic politics but also for its standing within the European Union. The choice between these two candidates represents a fundamental divergence in political philosophies and will undoubtedly shape Poland’s future for years to come.