Tuesday, January 13, 2026- Hungary has granted asylum to Zbigniew Ziobro, Poland’s former justice minister, who is known for his nationalist stance and controversial legal reforms. The move comes amid ongoing tensions between Poland and the European Union over judicial independence and rule-of-law issues. Hungarian authorities cited political persecution as the basis for granting asylum, marking a significant moment in Central European politics.
Ziobro, a key figure in Poland’s ruling Law and Justice party, has faced criticism from EU institutions for undermining judicial checks and consolidating political control over the courts. His decision to seek refuge in Hungary underscores the growing rift between nationalist governments in Central Europe and Brussels over democratic standards and the rule of law. Analysts say this asylum case could embolden other political figures facing EU scrutiny to look for protection in sympathetic countries.
The move is likely to strain relations further between Poland, Hungary, and EU institutions, as both governments continue to push back against EU pressure on legal and governance reforms. Observers note that Hungary’s decision signals a willingness to shield allied nationalist leaders, potentially reshaping alliances within the bloc and highlighting the ongoing struggle over rule-of-law compliance in Central Europe.
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