Poland recalls ambassador to France over alleged fake diploma scandal

Poland's Foreign Ministry has temporarily recalled its ambassador to France, Jan Emeryk Rosciszewski, from his diplomatic post pending an investigation into allegations surrounding a fake university diploma. The decision, announced Wednesday, follows the ambassador's detention by anti-corruption authorities in a scandal centered on a private management university.

The Investigation and Allegations

According to reports from the Polish state news agency PAP, Rosciszewski was detained Tuesday by the Central Anticorruption Bureau. The probe focuses on the Collegium Humanum university, which is accused of operating accelerated degree programs that allegedly allowed individuals to qualify for senior corporate and state roles without proper academic work. The ambassador is suspected of using an allegedly fraudulent MBA from this institution to secure a position on the supervisory board of Bank Pocztowy, a subsidiary of the state postal service. A ministry spokesperson stated the ambassador has been relieved of his duties "until all suspicions are resolved."

Official Statements and Denial

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maciej Wewior told PAP that the ministry does not comment on ongoing judicial or service actions but confirmed the decision by Minister Radoslaw Sikorski. In a statement to the same agency, Rosciszewski denied the allegations, claiming he never studied at or graduated from Collegium Humanum. He stated he was released after providing explanations and declared his "full cooperation with the prosecutor's office," expressing hope for a swift resolution.

Broader Implications and Context

This incident highlights concerns over integrity and credential verification for high public office, a matter of significant importance for institutional trust. The scandal has triggered a formal diplomatic reassignment, underscoring the seriousness with which Polish authorities are treating the probe. For nations like Türkiye, which prioritizes diplomatic professionalism and the rule of law, such cases reinforce the necessity of rigorous standards and transparency in public service appointments both domestically and among international partners.