English Section

Polityka Passport Awards return to Poland's public TV after decade-long hiatus under PiS

12.01.2026 14:25
Poland’s 33rd Polityka Passport Awards, one of the country’s most prestigious cultural honours, returned to the public broadcaster TVP after a ten-year pause under the right-wing populist Law and Justice (PiS) government, which had previously limited the gala’s broadcast on state television.
Polands Culture Minister Marta Cienkowska (fourth from left) at the 33rd Polityka Passport Awards gala, 11 January 2026, in Warsaw.
Poland's Culture Minister Marta Cienkowska (fourth from left) at the 33rd Polityka Passport Awards gala, 11 January 2026, in Warsaw.Photo: PAP/Rafał Guz

The event celebrated the nation’s leading figures in literature, music, film, and the arts.

Culture Minister Marta Cienkowska attended the gala on Sunday evening, 11 January.

Awards were presented across seven categories. The special Culture Creator award went to rock musician Tomasz Lipiński.

In literature, the prize was awarded to Stanisław Łubieński, while Emi Buchwald and Katarzyna Minkowska received recognition in film and stage direction, respectively.

In classical music, composer Aleksandra Słyż was honoured, and the popular music category went to the duo Sw@da x Niczos.

Photo: PAP/Rafał Guz Photo: PAP/Rafał Guz

The digital arts award was presented to 11 bit studios for their work in gaming, while visual arts recognition went to Ant Łakomsk.

The readers’ choice award was won by pianist Yehuda Prokopowicz, a participant in the Chopin Competition.

Established in 1993 by the left-leaning weekly Polityka, the Passport Awards are widely regarded as one of Poland’s most prestigious cultural honours, celebrating artistic excellence across a broad spectrum of disciplines.

(mp)

Source: IAR/Polish Radio English Service/X/@warszawa