Starting from the new school year of 2025-2026, educational institutions in Poland will conduct only one hour of religious education per week, a decision that has sparked significant controversy among conservative groups, particularly within the Catholic community. This policy has received backlash, including criticism from bishops, and has even led to a ruling by the Constitutional Tribunal deeming it incompatible with the highest legal norms in Poland. As a result, the Commissioner for Human Rights, Marcin Wiącek, has urged the Ministry of Education, led by Barbara Nowacka, to ensure that proper transitional periods are observed and to protect the rights of religion teachers.

Even prior to this decision, the Commissioner for Human Rights had signaled warnings about the potential negative implications of reducing religion class hours without appropriate adjustment measures in place, raising concerns about the principles of job protection for religion teachers. Data from the Association of Secular Catechists indicates a significant impact on the employment of teachers in religious education, suggesting that this policy could lead to job losses within this sector. The unfolding situation presents a complex legal and social challenge for the Ministry as it navigates these contentious reforms amidst ongoing debates about education and religious instruction in Poland.