Mateusz Morawiecki, Poland’s former prime minister and a leading figure in the Law and Justice Party (PiS), has expressed his vision for the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) in an interview with the Italian daily Corriere della Sera. Morawiecki emphasized his commitment to strengthening the sovereignty of EU member states and continuing the work of Giorgia Meloni, the outgoing ECR president and current Italian prime minister.
Morawiecki praised Meloni’s leadership, describing her as having laid a ‘solid foundation’ for the ECR’s unity. ‘I will continue on the path she set but aim to proceed with creativity,’ he stated. Under his leadership, Morawiecki envisions the ECR pursuing an ambitious agenda to address the EU’s declining competitiveness and eroding identity.
Central to Morawiecki’s platform is the principle of national sovereignty. He opposes further centralization within the European Union, advocating for a ‘community of free nations’ instead of a bureaucratic union. ‘The EU must remain a union of sovereign states, not a top-heavy administration,’ he asserted.
Morawiecki also pledged to collaborate with other political groups, including the Patriots for Europe, the European People’s Party, and sovereigntist factions, to build a majority in support of meaningful EU reforms. He identified priorities such as managing the green transition responsibly and curbing illegal migration as key areas of focus.
Acknowledging strong ties with leaders like Hungary’s Viktor Orbán and Spain’s Santiago Abascal of Vox, Morawiecki highlighted the potential for cooperation despite differences. One key point of divergence remains the approach to Russia amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. ‘For us, Russia is a Rubicon we cannot cross. However, on other issues, we are united and can work together,’ he explained.
Morawiecki also expressed alignment with US President-elect Donald Trump, whom he described as a champion of common sense. He pledged to strengthen transatlantic ties between Europe and the United States, underpinned by shared principles and values.
Meloni, upon announcing her resignation, endorsed Morawiecki as her successor. The ECR is expected to make its final decision on leadership in January. If elected, Morawiecki intends to steer the ECR toward an era of reform, unity, and a renewed emphasis on sovereignty within the EU.
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