Warsaw Recognizes EU Same-Sex Marriage, Marking Historic Shift for LGBTQ Rights in Poland
May 14, 2026
Warsaw city hall has recognized a same-sex marriage contracted in another EU country, marking a historic step for LGBTQ rights in Poland in line with European jurisprudence.
Polish law does not redefine marriage; the Constitution still defines it as between a man and a woman, and the transcription does not create or legalize same-sex marriages or civil unions in Poland.
The couple Jakub Cupriak-Trojan and Mateusz Trojan were married in Berlin in 2018 and had their union transcribed in Poland following a March 2026 Supreme Administrative Court ruling aligning with a November 2025 EU Court of Justice decision.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk signaled imminent administrative steps to recognize such unions, framing the move as a matter of human dignity and rights.
LGBTQ+ advocacy groups hailed the development as a historic, pivotal moment, while the prime minister noted administrative steps would proceed with rights and dignity as guiding principles.
The government has described the recognition as an urgent priority, with officials stating the decision would come promptly.
Tusk’s government has faced internal resistance from conservatives and opposition from President Karol Nawrocki, hindering broader legalization efforts for civil unions.
Despite promises to legalize civil unions, progress on comprehensive LGBT+ rights has been slowed by political contention within and around the administration.
Following the initial transcription, other couples awaiting recognition are expected to have their paperwork processed without delay.
Warsaw officials, including Mayor Rafael Trzaskowski, confirmed the first registry entry and signaled that similar applications would be handled promptly.
Poland still has no law permitting same-sex marriages; the government has pledged to draft legislation for Parliament, though no bill has been enacted yet.
Advocates emphasize that while this step aligns with EU obligations, it does not equate to national legalization of same-sex marriage.
Summary based on 7 sources
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Sources

AP News • May 14, 2026
Warsaw registers its first same-sex marriage | AP News
ABC News • May 14, 2026
Polish capital makes history with the first same-sex marriage registration