Poland’s President has vetoed a government bill concerning the legal status of “closest persons,” a form of registered partnership. Presidential Secretary Paweł Szefernaker explained the veto stemmed from the bill establishing a formalized relationship with consequences closely mirroring those of marriage. He argued the legislation wasn’t simply about granting status to a close individual, but creating an institution with significant legal implications. The President’s concern appears to be the potential circumvention of marriage as a legally and socially recognized institution. The veto suggests a broader debate surrounding the rights and recognition of same-sex or unmarried couples in Poland. It remains unclear whether the parliament will override the veto and enact the legislation. This decision highlights ongoing tensions between the government and the President regarding social policy.