Mateusz Szpytma appointed by Sejm as IPN president, pending Senate approval

The Polish Sejm voted on 17 July 2026 to appoint Dr Mateusz Szpytma as president of the Institute of National Remembrance (IPN). The vote counted 226 in favour, 194 against and four abstentions. Support came from the Law and Justice party (PiS), the Polish People’s Party (PSL), the Confederation and a handful of members of Poland 2050. Opposition was led by the Civic Coalition (KO), the Left, the Centre and other groups.

Szpytma’s nomination still requires confirmation by the Senate. Prime Minister Donald Tusk has warned that the KO will block the appointment in the upper house, casting doubt on its finalisation. PSL leader Władysław Kosiniak‑Kamysz defended the candidate, highlighting his scholarly work on the peasant movement, his involvement in commemorating Witos and the Ulm family, and his long‑standing service at the IPN since 2000.

A letter signed by over 200 historians criticised Szpytma for contributing to the politicisation of the IPN, a charge Szpytma’s supporters reject. The IPN collegium recommended him, noting his experience as deputy head and his expertise on Polish‑Jewish wartime rescue efforts. The outcome now rests on Senate deliberations.