Brussels has brought an end to its rule of law proceedings against Poland, which were initially triggered by controversial alterations to the country's judiciary under the previous

Law and Justice (PiS) government.

This decision follows the introduction of judicial reforms by Poland's current administration. While not all facets of these reforms have been fully realized, the European Commission deems the progress made thus far sufficient to conclude that there is no longer a systemic risk to the rule of law in Poland.

The reform agenda encompasses significant adjustments, including the restructuring of the National Council of the Judiciary and the Constitutional Tribunal, as well as the separation of duties between the Minister of Justice and the Prosecutor General. Furthermore, Poland has taken steps to reassure the European Commission, such as joining the European Public Prosecutor's Office and committing to abide by the rulings of the EU Court of Justice.

Earlier this month, the European Commission signaled its intention to close the proceedings, receiving approval from EU member states last week. Despite the closure of the case, Brussels will maintain oversight over the implementation of Poland's judicial reforms. Photo by Adrian Grycuk, Wikimedia commons.