Threats to Democracy During the Covid-19 Pandemic: The Case of Poland

A situation when the citizen rights are being limited results in the society’s justified objection. The last year was unique due to the pandemic. Governments around the world introduced limitations of citizen rights to counteract the spread of the coronavirus and to maintain healthcare capacity. The society’s reaction to such limitations varied between countries, and democratic and authoritarian systems. In Poland, democratic state, at the beginning of the pandemic (March 2020) major restrictions were imposed. The society’s approach was responsible, and people complied with all the rules. However, the situation changed dramatically when the second wave of COVID-19 when the Constitutional Court in Poland passed a judgement on abortion. Restrictions for businesses imposed again, resulting in the protests of entrepreneurs. The situation arose in which on one hand restrictions related to the pandemic were in force, while many demonstrations were held in the name of freedom and democracy. Such situation gives rise to a conflict between responsibility and civil liberties. The study reveals conflicts between the government actions and citizens respond, in both governing their values. Research findings illustrate complexity of socio-political issues during the pandemic, highlighting possible danger of using the crisis for manipulation of public opinion.