As a journalist, I can report that on June 4, 2023, the Polish opposition led a massive pro-democracy protest in Warsaw. Tens of thousands of people took to the streets to demand greater political freedoms and an end to what they see as the ruling party’s authoritarian tendencies.

The protest was organized by the Civic Coalition, a center-right opposition party that has been critical of the ruling Law and Justice party’s efforts to consolidate power and limit the independence of the judiciary. The demonstration was also supported by other opposition parties, as well as civil society groups and trade unions.

The protesters marched through the streets of Warsaw, waving Polish flags and carrying signs that read “Democracy Now” and “Freedom for Poland.” They chanted slogans calling for the government to respect the rule of law and protect civil liberties.

The demonstration was largely peaceful, although there were some isolated incidents of violence and clashes with police. Some protesters threw rocks and bottles at police officers, who responded with tear gas and water cannons.

The protest comes amid growing concerns about the state of democracy in Poland, which has been criticized by international organizations for its crackdown on the media, the judiciary, and civil society groups. The European Union has launched legal proceedings against Poland over its controversial judicial reforms, which critics say undermine the independence of the courts.

As a journalist, it is important to note that while the protest was largely peaceful, there were some incidents of violence. It is also important to provide context for the protest, including the concerns about the state of democracy in Poland and the ongoing legal proceedings against the country by the European Union.