LGBTQ Rights in Focus as Poland Prepares for Election and Faces EU Scrutiny

Tens of thousands of LGBTQ activists marched in Warsaw to demand equal rights ahead of the upcoming Polish elections, in which gay rights could play a prominent role. The ruling conservative nationalist Law and Justice party has focused on opposing "LGBT ideology" in previous campaigns, and activists expect them to use issues like gay marriage or teaching about LGBTQ issues in schools to mobilize socially conservative voters. The government argues that extending marriage and adoption to gay couples threatens traditional family structures and is harmful for children, but critics say the government is seeking to gain votes by stoking prejudice against a minority that already faces widespread discrimination.