Hungary's Asylum Decision for Ex-Polish Minister Fuels Tensions with Poland

Poland criticizes Hungary's decision to grant asylum to Marcin Romanowski, a former deputy justice minister accused of serious financial crimes, which Poland claims undermines European Union principles. The situation reflects broader political tensions between the two nations.

Hungary has ignited a diplomatic crisis with Poland by granting political asylum to ex-deputy justice minister Marcin Romanowski, who is wanted in Poland on multiple charges, including defrauding $40 million from a justice fund aimed at aiding crime victims. Romanowski, 48, had been serving under the ruling Law and Justice party from 2019 to 2023, and fled to Hungary before a forthcoming court hearing, claiming he would not receive a fair trial due to perceived political bias in Polish courts.

In a response on social media, Polish foreign minister Radoslaw Sikorski condemned the asylum decision as a hostile act towards Poland and contrary to the foundations of the European Union. Polish officials announced their intention to summon Hungary’s ambassador and consider asking the European Commission to take action against Budapest for failing to meet EU obligations.

Audits of the justice fund under Romanowski's guidance revealed that only 40% of the money was used appropriately, with questions raised about the processes for awarding contracts. Despite the serious nature of the allegations, the former minister denies wrongdoing.

Romanowski’s situation is further complicated by the fact that since fleeing, he has effectively disappeared from public view, with no communications recorded for almost two weeks prior to his asylum application. He had failed to attend a court hearing, prompting a European Arrest Warrant to be issued by Polish authorities.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has defended his administration's stance, vowing hospitality for anyone he claims is facing political persecution in Poland. This claim occurs in the backdrop of fracturing relations between Hungary and Poland, despite their historically aligned stances on issues such as EU policy and cultural conservatism.

Increasing tensions highlight a deeper ideological schism between the new Polish government and the previous Law and Justice administration, particularly regarding judicial reforms and governance in the EU context. Observers note that the political landscape continues to evolve amid scrutiny of judicial integrity and the rule of law across member states.