EU Pressure Mounts on Poland to Recognise Same-Sex Marriage – November 25, 2025
Brussels – The European Union is increasing pressure on Poland to legally recognize same-sex marriages, a move that has ignited a fierce debate within the country over national sovereignty and traditional values. The escalating tension centers on the principle of free movement and equal rights for all EU citizens, regardless of sexual orientation.
Currently, Poland’s constitution defines marriage as between a man and a woman. This stance creates legal complications for same-sex couples who married in other EU member states, denying them the same rights and recognition afforded to heterosexual couples-including inheritance, healthcare access, and residency permits for non-EU spouses. The EU argues this violates fundamental EU law. Activists and EU officials believe a resolution is critical as more same-sex couples exercise their right to live and work across borders.
Milosz Przepiorkowski, a Polish activist, articulated the core desire of many: “I don’t want to take anything away from you. I just want to have something for us so that we feel better. So that our lives become easier and better. And that we are legally recognized as a couple.”
The push for recognition is gaining momentum from within the EU, with figures like Mateusz Urban advocating for stronger legal and financial pressure on Poland to comply. However, Poland’s right-wing conservative and national-populist factions vehemently oppose what they perceive as EU overreach into areas of national competence, arguing it threatens Poland’s traditional values.
The case is currently documented under file number C – 713/23. The EU Commission has not specified a firm deadline for Poland to respond,but legal experts anticipate further action-possibly including infringement proceedings-if a satisfactory resolution is not reached. The outcome will set a precedent for other EU member states grappling with similar issues of LGBTQ+ rights and national sovereignty.