Poland’s government ignores business concerns while pushing controversial cybersecurity legislation through parliament despite requests for dialogue.
Commission for Digital Development
Poland’s commission for digital development has been one of the few places for constructive parliamentary discussion. However, even this commission cannot avoid controversial legislative projects.
Controversial Legislation
Similar to the implementation of DSA which led to presidential veto, the cybersecurity law amendment faces criticism. The government appears deaf to criticism and wants to push through a law that sanctions an arbitrary role for government administration in assessing cybersecurity risks.
Proposed Amendments
Many amendments were proposed, including requiring the application of administrative procedure code in designating high-risk providers. The author’s party also sought amendments to clarify which entities should be required to withdraw equipment and software from high-risk providers, specifically targeting 5G networks.
Government Response
The government dismisses criticism as jokes and claims extensive consultations, but the author sees no evidence of this. They argue that business feedback is crucial for such important legislation and that the government is creating smoke screens to avoid addressing criticisms.
Transparency Concerns
The process lacks transparency, with promises of public hearings that are not granted. The author notes that when the coalition took power, they promised an end to pushing laws over citizens’ heads. This large and important bill deserves discussion to build trust between businesses and the state.
Main Controversies
The main controversies involve the arbitrary nature of ministerial decisions in designating high-risk providers and the potential for officials to use criteria unrelated to technology functionality and security. The geopolitical position of Poland as a NATO frontline state is being cynically used to justify excessive state powers.