On August 6, 2025, Karol Nawrocki was officially sworn in as the President of Poland. He won the election earlier this year with just over 50% of the votes. Many people were surprised by his win because he was not very well-known in politics before. His victory came with strong support from the conservative Law and Justice Party and U.S. President Donald Trump.
From Museum Director to President: Nawrocki’s Unique Political Journey
Karol Nawrocki did not start his career in politics. He is a trained historian and worked as the director of the Institute of National Remembrance, where he focused on preserving Poland’s history. Before that, he ran the Museum of the Second World War in Gdansk.
He became a presidential candidate in late 2024. Even though he ran as an independent, the PiS party gave him full support. Many voters were drawn to his simple and patriotic message about protecting Polish values and national pride.
Poland’s New Leader Focuses on Patriotism, Family, and Sovereignty
During his campaign, Nawrocki talked a lot about traditional values. He spoke in favor of family, Christian beliefs, and national pride. He said Poland should make its own decisions and not be pressured by Brussels or European Union rules.
In his inauguration speech, Nawrocki said he would protect Polish identity and stop any attempt to take away Poland’s independence. He also promised to revise the Constitution by 2030 to make Poland even stronger as a sovereign nation.
The swearing-in ceremony took place in Warsaw. Many lawmakers and PiS supporters gathered in Parliament to cheer him on, shouting “Karol! Karol!” when he entered. Nawrocki thanked voters and promised to serve with honesty.
His supporters believe he will stand up for Polish culture and fight what they see as foreign pressure from the EU. Many also see him as a symbol of change, especially for people who feel left behind by modern politics.
President Nawrocki and Prime Minister Tusk May Struggle to Work Together
Even though Nawrocki is president, Prime Minister Donald Tusk still runs the government. But the two leaders have very different ideas. Tusk wants Poland to stay close to the European Union and supports more liberal values. Nawrocki, on the other hand, believes Poland should go its own way.
Nawrocki has the power to veto laws passed by Tusk’s government. This means they could clash often over issues like judicial reform, abortion, immigration, and EU policies. Tusk has already warned that Nawrocki’s presidency could threaten Polish democracy if he tries to limit the courts or press freedom.
What Nawrocki’s Victory Means for Foreign Policy and the EU
Nawrocki’s presidency also changes Poland’s role in international politics. He is seen as a close ally of Donald Trump and is expected to push for stronger ties with conservative countries. At the same time, he may become more distant from European leaders who want a united EU.
He has already said that Poland should not join the Eurozone and has questioned the EU’s migration policies. He wants Poland to control its own borders and keep its own currency.
Some experts also say Nawrocki may take a tougher line on Ukraine. Although Poland has helped Ukraine in the war, Nawrocki believes Poland should not give too much or become too involved in conflicts outside its borders.
Critics Raise Concerns Over Past Controversies and Political Style
Even before taking office, Nawrocki faced some criticism. News reports questioned how he obtained a valuable piece of property from an elderly man. He later donated the property to charity, but the issue raised concerns about his ethics.
He also admitted to taking part in football hooligan fights when he was younger. While he said he regrets those actions, some people believe his background reflects a more aggressive or extreme political style.
Despite the controversies, Nawrocki says he wants to bring people together and serve all citizens, not just his supporters.
Karol Nawrocki’s rise from historian to president is one of the most surprising political stories in Poland’s recent history. With strong conservative backing, including support from Donald Trump, he has promised to protect Polish values, reject outside pressure, and oppose liberal reforms.
