The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has ruled that the Polish government must pay 114,000 for the illegal suspension of Judge Beata Morawiec, who had been targeted under the administration of the Law and Justice party (PiS). The Court determined that Morawiec's suspension was not only unlawful but was part of a broader intimidation strategy employed against judges critical of reforms led by the former Minister of Justice, Zbigniew Ziobro. This ruling is significant as it highlights the ongoing challenges to judicial independence in Poland, particularly under policies that critics argue are designed to suppress dissent within the judiciary.

The ECHR's decision underscores serious concerns regarding the state of the judiciary in Poland, specifically targeting actions taken by the PiS government. It stated that the measures used to silence judges included harassment through prosecution and the use of an illegal Disciplinary Chamber, which was appointed by the PiS government. The ruling reflects a growing pattern of judicial persecution aimed at those within the legal system who oppose the government’s judicial reforms, leading to fears of a chilling effect on legal professionals in Poland.

Judge Morawiec's case has become emblematic of the struggle for judicial independence in Poland, as she was a prominent figure in the judiciary and resisted the government’s encroachments. The ECHR ruling serves as a critical reminder to the Polish authorities about their obligations under international law to uphold the principles of judicial independence and to refrain from using intimidation tactics against members of the judiciary. As a result, such decisions may influence future legislative and judicial actions within Poland regarding the treatment of judges and the overall integrity of the judicial system.