Speaking at the inauguration of the Second World Assembly of Presidents and Leaders of Polish Diaspora Organizations, Kidawa-Błońska stressed the importance of postal voting in countries such as the United States and Canada.
She described the Polish diaspora as strong and independent, seeking partnership rather than oversight from the homeland.
"Unfortunately, we do not yet have this law, but we will not stop and will keep fighting so that Polonia can vote in a simple and easy way," she said, adding she was disappointed by the veto but remained optimistic about overcoming the obstacles.
On Thursday, President Karol Nawrocki vetoed a bill amending the electoral code to extend postal voting to all voters.
The president cited risks associated with unregistered mailing of ballots abroad, which he said could depend on varying quality of postal services in different countries.
In a short video statement, he said: "In today’s world, where hybrid threats and interference in the electoral process are real, a lack of full control over the voting process is a serious and unacceptable risk that we cannot take."
He also raised concerns about ensuring ballot secrecy outside polling stations.
The proposed law would allow voluntary postal voting in parliamentary and presidential elections for all voters, while in local elections it would be limited to seniors, people with disabilities and those under quarantine.
Polish citizens living abroad must currently vote in person at embassies, consulates, or designated polling stations, as postal voting is not available for voters outside Poland.
The World Polonia Council is organizing the Second Assembly of Presidents and Leaders of Polish Organizations from November 27 to 30, 2025, in Warsaw and Pułtusk, bringing together representatives from 25 countries and over 40 diaspora organizations under the slogan "Generational Bond – the Strength of the World Polonia."
Jarosław Narkiewicz, chairman of the Council, highlighted the gathering as a forum for Polonia to engage directly with Poland and discuss mutual expectations and cooperation.
(ał)
Source: PAP