Poland's President Karol Nawrocki pushes climate referendum amid polarized debate

President Karol Nawrocki has tabled a bill to hold a nationwide referendum on the European Union's climate policy, aiming for a vote in September. The proposed referendum question suggests that the EU's climate agenda has increased living costs, energy prices and business expenses, prompting accusations that the wording is biased and intended to mobilise support for Nawrocki's platform.

Opposition parties and critics argue the referendum is a political tool rather than a genuine public consultation, warning that the phrasing steers respondents toward a negative view of the climate policy. A United Surveys poll for *Wirtualna Polska* found that 47 % of respondents say they would take part, with 37.7 % answering “definitely yes” and 9.3 % “rather yes”. However, 49.1 % indicated they would not vote, meaning the required turnout—over half of eligible voters—is uncertain. The debate has spilled onto social media, with parties mobilising supporters and the issue becoming a focal point of broader political polarization over energy costs and the Green Deal.