The European Commission’s comprehensive “Recovery and Resilience Facility” of the NextGenerationEU recovery plan amounts to €800 billion and is intended to be split between EU member states.

In June 2022, the European Parliament set an ultimatum for the Polish government. Indeed, some MEPs see the Polish government’s actions as a real disrespect for the law of the European Union.

After a year of obstruction, the European Council adopted its implementing decision on the approval of Poland’s national plan, issued with conditions. In order to benefit from the 35.4 billion euros of funds, Poland must however respect the adopted resolutions, comply with repeated reminders and therefore reform its justice system. To do so, it is urged to abolish the current disciplinary chamber in favor of an independent court, and to review the illegal prosecution of certain judges who are questioning the Polish judicial system.

What is the purpose of the Polish recovery plan?

The purpose of this funding is to support the post-COVID-19 economic recovery on a national scale, as well as to encourage ecological transitions. Indeed, 43% of the fund allocated to Poland is earmarked for climate measures, such as decarbonization, substitution by renewable energies, and increasing energy efficiency. In addition, the Russian-Ukrainian war reminds us of the crucial issue of energy supply independence in Poland. Similarly, the digital transition being a priority, another 21% of the fund will be used for investments in broadband Internet access, the digitization of public services, IT equipment, skills in the field and in cybersecurity.

And now, what happens?

The Commission will make the payment semi-annually in 2-3 times, in return for the achievement of the targets set in the plan for investments and reforms by Poland.

It is clear that Poland is responding to the need to foster a strong recovery in order to structure a sustainable future. But will the Polish judiciary and government do enough to review their systems and decisions to meet the EU’s expectations? Will Poland succeed in reforming before the deadlines of the Recovery and Resilience Facility plan? Will it really get its promised funds in exchange for its cooperation, or is this a “trick” by the European Parliament? If so, despite 49 reform ideas and 53 investments, is Poland’s future resilient, sustainable and prepared for the ecological and digital challenges ahead?

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