Recently, Poland’s Ministry of Culture made the decision to dismiss Radosław Śmigulski from his position as director of the Polish Film Institute (PFI). This move has not only surprised but also sent shockwaves across the local film industry. The decision was announced by Minister of Culture and National Heritage Bartłomiej Sienkiewicz in a press conference, along with the removal of three other cultural institution directors and one research institute head.
This dismissal is part of a larger drive by centre-right Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s government to restore the independence of state institutions that were allegedly eroded during the previous government’s time in power. This action is seen as an attempt to reclaim these institutions for all “Polish men and women,” according to Sienkiewicz. The goal is to transform these institutions into something more than just a source of party financing.
Reasons for Dismissal
The Ministry of Culture cited an audit of cinema financing by the Supreme Audit Office, as well as complaints from local film industry professionals, as reasons for Śmigulski’s dismissal. Allegations of censorship, restrictions on artists, difficulties in settling applications and subsidies, and lack of transparency in decision-making were among the main concerns raised by the industry professionals.
Public Outcry
Prior to his dismissal, several key film guilds in Poland, representing around 5,000 professionals, had sent a letter to Sienkiewicz calling for Śmigulski’s removal. The widespread appeal for his dismissal shows the level of dissatisfaction within the industry regarding his leadership at the Polish Film Institute. This public outcry played a significant role in the decision to remove him from his position.
Future of the Institute
Following Śmigulski’s departure, Kamila Dorbach has been appointed as the acting director of the Polish Film Institute. The Ministry of Culture has promised to conduct a competition to appoint a new permanent director for the institution. Despite the changes in leadership, the Ministry has assured that the institute’s operations will continue as usual, and funding rounds will proceed as scheduled.
After over six years as the Director of the Polish Film Institute, Radosław Śmigulski released a short statement to the media confirming his departure. In his statement, he expressed gratitude to filmmakers, the media, and collaborators for their support over the years. He also wished his successor and the entire Polish film community success in the future.
The dismissal of Radosław Śmigulski as the director of the Polish Film Institute marks a significant change in the leadership of the institution. The decision reflects the government’s commitment to restoring the independence and transparency of state institutions, particularly in the cultural sector. Despite the controversy surrounding his tenure, the industry now looks towards a new chapter under the leadership of a yet-to-be-appointed permanent director.