"Poland's Shift in Power: From Authoritarian Rule to Centrist Leadership"

Poland's Law and Justice Party (PiS) has lost a confidence vote, ending its eight-year authoritarian rule. The party fell short of a parliamentary majority in October's general election and failed to find a coalition to stay in power. Centrist politician Donald Tusk is expected to become prime minister and form a coalition government. PiS had implemented an illiberal transformation of Poland, but its rule was marked by division and criticism from international bodies. Tusk will face challenges from a president and courts system favoring the former ruling party, as well as the need to appease a diverse coalition.