We are honored to present the speech of Minister of Justice of the Republic of Poland, Dr. Adam Bodnar, delivered during the opening session of the international symposium titled “Populism, Religion, and Civilizationism: Transnational and Global Perspectives.” The event, held at the University of Warsaw on May 22–23, 2025, brought together scholars, policymakers, and civil society actors to explore the complex intersections between populist discourse, religious identity, civilizational narratives, and democratic resilience.
Minister Bodnar’s address sets the tone for two days of critical reflection on the future of pluralism and democratic values in an era increasingly shaped by populist movements and technological disruption. As a distinguished legal scholar, former ombudsman, and steadfast defender of the rule of law, Minister Bodnar offers a compelling perspective on the institutional and normative challenges posed by civilizational populism—particularly in Central and Eastern Europe.
In his remarks, he reflects on Poland’s recent political trajectory, the evolving role of legal institutions under populist pressure, and the responsibilities of democratic governments to protect civil liberties and uphold constitutional norms in the face of polarization. He also speaks to the broader European and international context, emphasizing the need for legal safeguards, transnational solidarity, and civic education as antidotes to exclusionary populist narratives.
We invite you to listen to Minister Bodnar’s remarks as part of a broader conversation on how states and societies can navigate the volatile intersection of identity politics, populist mobilization, and democratic governance in today’s interconnected world.
This keynote contribution is made possible through the collaboration of the European Center for Populism Studies (ECPS) and the Centre for Europe at the University of Warsaw, with support from our global academic partners.
