Poll shows nearly a quarter of Poles support leaving the EU

Support for Poland's potential departure from the European Union, often termed "Polexit," has grown to encompass nearly a quarter of the population and shifted its political center of gravity, according to a new nationwide survey. The poll, conducted by United Surveys for Poland's Wirtualna Polska outlet, shows that 24.7% of respondents now favor leaving the bloc, with the strongest advocacy found among voters for the mainstream conservative Law and Justice (PiS) party rather than far-right factions.

Mainstreaming of the "Polexit" Idea Among Conservatives

The findings highlight a notable political evolution. The highest level of support for a Polish exit, at 47%, was found among backers of PiS, the formerly ruling conservative party that lost power in 2023. Within this group, 29% are firmly in favor. This positions the idea within a major center-right political force, moving it from the political fringe. Meanwhile, voters for the far-right Confederation party, often seen as the most eurosceptic, showed 41% support for Polexit, with only 8% rejecting the idea outright.

Deeply Divided Public and Demographic Splits

While support for leaving has grown, the poll underscores that a strong majority of Poles—65.7%—still wish to remain in the European Union. This includes 48.6% who are firmly opposed to exit and 17.1% moderately against it. The divisions fall sharply along party lines: supporters of the ruling pro-European coalition parties, such as Civic Platform and The Left, show over 80% opposition, with virtually no firm "yes" votes for Polexit. Demographically, euroscepticism is more prevalent among men and those aged 30–49, while the 18–29 age group is the most pro-EU.

Political Context and Implications

The rising sentiment aligns with a broader political trend in Poland. The theme of national sovereignty versus Brussels-based regulation has become a central issue. This was evident during the recent presidential election campaign where PiS-backed winner Karol Nawrocki emphasized sovereignty. Simultaneously, high-profile anti-EU rhetoric from figures like ultranationalist Grzegorz Braun, whose party is now polling third nationally, has gained attention. The survey suggests that euroscepticism is no longer a niche position but a substantive political current with a significant foothold in Poland's largest conservative opposition movement, potentially reshaping future political debates and Poland's relationship with the EU.