About
Andrzej Duda is a Polish lawyer and politician who served as the 6th president of Poland from 2015 to 2025. Before assuming the presidency, Duda was a Member of the Sejm (Polish Parliament) from 2011 to 2014, representing the Law and Justice party. He also served as a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) from 2014 to 2015. Duda is known for his conservative views and his close alignment with the Law and Justice party's policies. During his presidency, he focused on strengthening Poland's national identity and promoting traditional values.
Career Timeline
Elected to Polish Parliament
Duda was elected to the Sejm as a member of the Law and Justice party, beginning his political career. As a relatively unknown lawyer and academic, he had minimal public recognition at this stage.
Elected to European Parliament
Duda served briefly as a Member of the European Parliament, gaining additional political experience. This position provided him with a platform but limited visibility, as he was still building his political profile.
Elected President of Poland
In a surprise upset, Duda defeated incumbent Bronisław Komorowski to become Poland's president at age 43. This victory made him a household name in Poland and gave him significant influence as he aligned closely with the Law and Justice party's agenda.
Judicial reform controversy
Duda signed controversial judicial reforms that sparked massive protests and EU concerns about rule of law in Poland. While the reforms were domestically divisive, they elevated his international profile as a polarizing figure in European politics.
Narrowly wins re-election
Duda secured a second term in a closely contested and divisive election that highlighted Poland's political polarization. His re-election ensured continued Law and Justice party influence but came amid growing criticism domestically and internationally.
Law and Justice loses parliament
The Law and Justice party lost its parliamentary majority to a coalition led by Donald Tusk, significantly diminishing Duda's power and influence. As president, he remained in office but faced a hostile government, reducing his ability to shape policy.
Completes presidency
Duda's 10-year presidency concluded as he was constitutionally barred from seeking a third term. His departure marked the end of the Law and Justice party's dominance, and his legacy remained controversial both domestically and internationally.
Former president, limited role
One year after leaving office, Duda remains well-known in Poland but has limited international recognition beyond Central European politics. His controversial tenure keeps him relevant in Polish political discourse, earning him B-tier status as a well-known figure in his field without broader global fame.
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Last updated: February 23, 2026