Top EU court rules Polish Constitutional Tribunal is not independent

The EU's top court has ruled that Poland's Constitutional Tribunal is not "independent and impartial" due to politicized appointments by the previous conservative government. The court stated that the tribunal violated the principle of effective judicial protection and disregarded EU law. The tribunal is Poland's highest judicial body, responsible for ensuring laws align with the national constitution. Between 2015 and 2023, the Law and Justice party established political control over top courts, leading to conflicts with the European Commission. Poland's Justice Minister welcomed the ruling, emphasizing the need to rebuild an independent tribunal.