"Poland's Delay in Legalizing Civil Unions for Same-Sex Couples"
Same-sex couples in Poland, such as Ola and Karolina, are hopeful for legal recognition of civil unions under the new liberal government, after facing years of discrimination and legal obstacles. The previous government's hostility towards the LGBTQ+ community led to the declaration of "LGBT-free zones" in dozens of cities. Activist Bart Staszewski's efforts brought international attention to the issue, prompting the European Union to cut funding to these cities. With a new government in power, there is hope for progress in legal rights and protection from hate speech for the LGBTQ+ community in Poland.