On 16 June 2025, the President of the International Union of Judicial Officers (UIHJ), Mr. Marc Schmitz, visited Wisła, Poland, to take part in a key day of a national training seminar for Polish judicial officers and bailiffs assessors. The event, organised by the National Council of Judicial Officers of Poland (Krajowa Rada Komornicza – KRK), was held in the scenic surroundings of southern Poland and brought together professionals from across the country for a high-level exchange on the evolution of the enforcement profession.
President Schmitz’s visit was a strong gesture of support for the Polish judicial officers and their continued efforts to strengthen professionalism, international cooperation, and readiness to meet modern challenges. He was welcomed by President of the National Council, Mr. Sławomir Szynalik, as well as other members of the KRK, including Małgorzata Pędziszczak, member of the UEHJ Executive Committee.
In his keynote address, Mr. Schmitz reflected on the long-standing partnership between the UIHJ and the Polish self-governing enforcement profession, dating back to Poland’s accession to the UIHJ in 1991 and the subsequent liberalisation of the profession in 1997. He praised Poland’s transformation into a modern and effective enforcement system and highlighted the UIHJ’s continued support for further reforms.
“The relationship between the International Union of Judicial Officers and Poland is a story of trust, commitment, and progress,” said Mr. Schmitz. “We have grown together, advocated together, and we will continue to build the future together.”
The speech also addressed critical current issues, including digital transformation, ethical challenges linked to artificial intelligence, and the indispensable social role of judicial officers. Mr. Schmitz stressed that while technological innovation is necessary, it cannot replace the presence, judgement, and empathy of judicial officers in the field.
During the visit, President Schmitz expressed the UIHJ’s openness to supporting the Polish Chamber in discussions with national authorities regarding enforcement fees, professional image, and competence development. He also acknowledged the Chamber’s initiative to translate the UIHJ’s Global Code of Enforcement into Polish, facilitating greater alignment with international best practices.
UIHJ extends its sincere thanks to the National Council of Judicial Officers of Poland, in particular President Sławomir Szynalik for his warm welcome and steadfast commitment to the values of justice and professional excellence.
