Nationalist Tensions Rise at Poland's Independence Day March

On Poland's Independence Day, a controversial march led by far-right groups in Warsaw drew tens of thousands, highlighting tensions between the nationalist opposition and the liberal government. Issues like EU relations, abortion rights, and migration shaped the discourse, with nationalist sentiments gaining traction in opinion polls.

On Monday, tens of thousands marched through Warsaw in Poland's annual Independence Day event, which was organized by far-right factions and attended by nationalist opposition leaders. The event showcased red flares and banners opposing the EU, Ukraine, and white supremacy, reflecting the ongoing friction between Poland's hard-right and the ruling liberal center.

Since its victory last year, the government led by Donald Tusk has struggled in polls due to coalition infighting over abortion rights. Meanwhile, the far-right Confederation party, which helped organize the event, has gained traction, now polling at 12%, echoing similar anti-migration sentiments across Europe.

Jaroslaw Kaczynski, leader of the nationalist Law and Justice (PiS) party, emphasized unity in the patriotic camp for Poland's sovereignty. During its eight-year reign, PiS pushed traditional values, stricter abortion laws, and increased control over the media and judiciary. The march saw chants against mass migration and the EU, with authorities estimating 90,000 participants, though organizers claimed 200,000.

(With inputs from agencies.)