On April 16, 2025, Grzegorz Braun, a member of the European Parliament and a candidate for the Polish presidency, sparked controversy by storming into a hospital in Oleśnica, where he attempted to obstruct the work of gynecologist Gizela Jagielska. This incident has drawn significant attention due to its implications for both medical ethics and political discourse surrounding abortion rights in Poland.
According to reports from Gazeta Wyborcza, Braun's intrusion was prompted by a recent legal abortion carried out at the hospital in the 36th week of pregnancy, a procedure that is permitted under Polish law when there is a threat to the mother's health. Dr. Jagielska, who performed the abortion, has been a target of right-wing criticism following media coverage of the case, which highlighted the difficult circumstances faced by the patient, known as Anita.
Upon entering the hospital, Braun, accompanied by MP Roman Fritz, declared that he was conducting a "citizen's arrest" of Dr. Jagielska. Reports indicate that Braun and his associates physically blocked the doctor from leaving her office for over an hour, during which time she was subjected to verbal abuse and intimidation. Dr. Jagielska recounted, "I was insulted and threatened; I was pushed and pulled when I tried to leave." She described the experience as a political stunt that jeopardized patient care, stating, "Braun is conducting an election campaign at the expense of patients."
The incident escalated as Dr. Jagielska attempted to perform her duties while being prevented from doing so. She later expressed her shock at being trapped in the hospital's administrative office by Braun and his supporters, emphasizing that her patients were waiting for her care. "I was in the secretariat when Braun and his people broke in, claiming they were making a citizen's arrest and demanding my arrest. They stood there calling me a murderer," she explained in a video shared online.
In response to the disturbance, the police were called to the scene. Braun urged the officers to arrest Dr. Jagielska and prevent her from having contact with patients, including minors, arguing that allowing her to work endangered lives. However, police officers clarified that the matter was under investigation by the prosecutor's office and that they were there to maintain order and protect patients. Acting police spokesperson Karolina Walczak stated, "We are here to ensure that there are no clashes and that patients and hospital staff do not suffer."
This event has not only raised concerns about the treatment of medical professionals but has also reignited the ongoing debate over abortion laws in Poland. The hospital in Oleśnica has recently been in the spotlight due to a case involving a patient who had to terminate her pregnancy after being misled about the health of her fetus. The case drew significant media attention, leading to heightened scrutiny of healthcare providers like Dr. Jagielska, who perform legal abortions.
Minister of the Interior and Administration Tomasz Siemoniak condemned the actions of Braun, stating on social media that "anyone who threatens doctors and disrupts the work of the hospital will face severe consequences." He emphasized that healthcare workers deserve respect and support, and that police would strictly enforce the law in such cases.
The prosecutor's office in Oleśnica has since opened an investigation into the events that transpired during Braun's protest, particularly focusing on the potential deprivation of liberty of Dr. Jagielska. Additionally, the police confirmed that they had documented the incident and were reviewing the actions of those involved for possible legal violations.
As news of the incident spread, various groups organized protests outside the hospital. Młodzież Wszechpolska (All-Polish Youth), a right-wing organization, held a picket in support of Braun, while supporters of abortion rights, including MP Małgorzata Tracz, also gathered to express their views.
Magdalena Biejat, a candidate for the presidency from the Left party, criticized Braun's actions, calling them a form of fundamentalist aggression against healthcare workers and patients. She called for systemic changes to protect hospitals from such political intrusions, advocating for the establishment of buffer zones around medical facilities.
The incident has highlighted the increasing tensions surrounding reproductive rights in Poland, where the laws governing abortion remain highly restrictive and contentious. While legal abortions do occur, they are often met with public backlash and protests from anti-abortion activists. The case of Anita has become emblematic of the struggles faced by women navigating the healthcare system in the context of Poland's strict abortion laws.
As the investigation continues, the implications of Braun's actions are likely to resonate throughout the political landscape, prompting discussions about the rights of medical professionals and the need for protective measures within healthcare settings. The situation in Oleśnica serves as a stark reminder of the intersection between politics and healthcare, and the potential consequences of allowing political agendas to disrupt essential medical services.
In the wake of this incident, it remains to be seen how the authorities will respond to the growing concerns about the safety and autonomy of healthcare providers in Poland, as well as the ongoing debate over reproductive rights.
