Defiant Polish nationalists rally in Warsaw for Independence Day procession despite electoral setback

Tens of thousands of people took part in a march organized by nationalist groups in Warsaw, Poland on Saturday to celebrate the country’s Independence Day holiday. The march, which commemorates Poland’s statehood at the end of World War I, saw participants carrying the national white-and-red flag and some burning flares as they walked from the city center to the National Stadium.

While various patriotic events occur throughout the country on November 11th, the Independence March has gained significant attention due to its history of xenophobic slogans and violence. However, this year’s event, attended by approximately 40,000 individuals, transpired peacefully, according to Warsaw mayor Rafal Trzaskowski.

The march took place amidst a backdrop of nationalist forces witnessing a decline in support from voters. In the recent national election, a large number of voters turned out to embrace centrist, moderate conservative, and left-wing parties, reflecting a rejection of the nationalist conservative party that had ruled for eight years and clashed with the European Union. The far-right Confederation party, which shares ideological ties with the Independence March, only secured 18 out of the 460 seats in the Polish parliament (Sejm). Furthermore, while the ruling right-wing nationalist party, Law and Justice, won the most votes, they fell short of a parliamentary majority.

Donald Tusk, the coalition’s candidate for the next prime minister, called for national unity in his message, emphasizing that the holiday belongs to all Poles. He criticized those who use the concept of “nation” to divide and spread hatred, stating, “Today our nation is celebrating independence. The whole nation, all of Poland.” Notably, Tusk did not participate in the march.

The Independence Day holiday marks the restoration of Poland’s national sovereignty in 1918, following 123 years of Prussian, Austrian, and Russian rule. President Andrzej Duda expressed his joy and pride in a speech at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, highlighting the significance of Poland’s rebirth after a long period of non-existence. He also warned about the threat of Russian imperialism, which not only endangers Ukraine but the broader region.

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy conveyed his well-wishes to Poland on social media, expressing a desire for their independence to remain invincible and eternal. Over the years, the march has attracted far-right sympathizers from other European countries, including Hungary and Italy. This year, Paul Golding, the leader of the far-right party Britain First, joined the march. Football supporters were prominently involved, with some displaying banners featuring far-right slogans. Additionally, a group stomped on EU and LGBTQ+ flags, while one rainbow flag was burned. However, many families participated in the march, and no arrests were made. Climate protesters who positioned themselves along the march’s route were removed by the police.