Hungary Revokes Refugee Status of Fugitive Ex-Justice Minister Ziobro
Hungary has withdrawn refugee protection for Zbigniew Ziobro, the former Polish justice minister who fled to the US. Poland now plans to ask Washington whether Ziobro can legally remain without travel documents.
Hungary has revoked the refugee status of Zbigniew Ziobro, the former Polish justice minister who served under the Law and Justice (PiS) government from 2015 to 2023. Ziobro, who faces 26 criminal charges in Poland including leading a criminal organization and approving illegal purchase of Pegasus spyware, fled Poland after the coalition government took power and has been sheltering in the United States since May 2026.
Key developments
- Hungary simultaneously revoked refugee status for Ziobro, fellow politician Marcin Romanowski, and Patrycja Kotecka-Ziobro, also canceling their travel documents
- Polish Justice Minister Waldemar Żurek announced Poland will formally ask the US whether Ziobro is permitted to remain without valid travel documents
- A Polish court recently upheld a request for Ziobro's detention, clearing the way for Poland to formally request his extradition from the United States
Ziobro has claimed he cannot receive a fair trial in Poland under the current government, but the revocation of his refugee status removes one barrier to extradition proceedings. The move reflects shifting geopolitical circumstances: Hungary's government change in 2026 removed the protective umbrella that Prime Minister Orbán had previously extended to Polish opposition figures.
For foreigners in Poland: If you're a non-EU citizen or have immigration matters pending, understand that Poland cooperates with allied governments on extradition and legal matters. Status changes abroad can affect your own residency; ensure your visa or residence permit documentation is current and valid across all relevant countries, particularly if you travel between Poland and allied nations.
Sources
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