Warsaw Civil Status Office Faces Allegations of Nepotism, Cronyism, and Mobbing

Warsaw's Civil Status Office (USC) faces serious allegations of deep-seated nepotism and cronyism, with reports suggesting a "clan-like" structure and the hiring of relatives and friends has persisted for over twenty years. The accusations, detailed by Gazeta Wyborcza, point to a systemic issue within the public institution.

A primary concern revolves around the alleged "inheritance" of directorial positions. The current deputy director, Karolina Sorbian-Jamiołkowska, reportedly took over her role from her mother, Danuta Sorbian. Reports indicate that after a change in local government in Pruszków, where Sorbian-Jamiołkowska previously served as secretary, she quickly secured employment and was promoted within a mere month and a half in Warsaw. Further allegations suggest other family members hold positions within the city's administration, including the director's sister working in the human resources department.

Gazeta Wyborcza also cites anonymous employee accounts describing alleged mobbing and a "feudal culture" within the USC. Lower-ranking employees reportedly faced demands to run personal errands for superiors, such as grocery shopping or picking up prescriptions. The newspaper also highlighted a practice of currying favor with management, with employees allegedly bringing homemade cured meats to their bosses. This system, according to sources, created barriers for individuals not connected to the "social circle," significantly delaying their career advancement.

Another significant issue involves a conflict of interest related to postgraduate studies organized by the Catholic University of Lublin (KUL). The head of the Organizational Department allegedly used her work hours and official email to encourage subordinates to enroll in a program she managed at KUL. Several other USC management members were reportedly part of the teaching staff. The city of Warsaw reportedly funded tuition for 13 employees, costing the municipal budget 58,000 Polish złoty. Employees quoted by the newspaper raised concerns about public funds benefiting management while regular staff faced difficulties accessing essential training.