Poland: Presidential elections set for May 10

Event

On Wednesday, April 1, the Polish government announced that the country's presidential elections slated for Sunday, May 10, will proceed despite the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. As a precautionary measure, authorities will allow senior citizens and individuals in quarantine to submit postal votes. Officials also added that an amendment to the parliamentary bill to permit the whole public to submit their votes by post is also under consideration. However, opposition leaders and more than 500 medical professionals have called on the government delay the vote due to the health risks of COVID-19. On Saturday, March 29, over 40 NGOs have also urged the government to declare a state of natural disaster in order to postpone the elections to prevent further spread of the virus. 

Meanwhile, quarantine measures continue to remain in place as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak. For example, individuals are prohibited from leaving their homes except for essential activities, and gatherings of more than two people, excluding families, have been banned.

A heightened security presence is to be expected in the lead up to the elections.  

Advice

Individuals in Poland are advised to monitor developments and adhere to instructions issued by the local authorities.