Polish Digital Affairs Minister Gawkowski dismissed US Ambassador Tom Rose’s criticism of Poland’s vetoed Digital Services Act implementation on January 15.
Gawkowski Responds to Ambassador USA
Minister Krzysztof Gawkowski stated that US Ambassador Tom Rose “myli się” (is mistaken). He emphasized that respect for Polish-US partnership must begin with facts, noting the Digital Services Act (DSA) operates directly in Europe and aims to protect Polish citizens from online harms like illegal content, fraud, and youth hate speech. Gawkowski clarified that no provision blocked investments or business development in Poland, regardless of origin, and instead established clear rules for all. He argued that freedom without responsibility undermines sovereignty, and a strong state must protect society over corporate interests, even from key allies.
Ambassador USA’s Criticism
US Ambassador Tom Rose praised Polish President Karol Nawrocki for vetoing the “punitive and anti-American” EU Digital Services Act, warning it would weaken Poland by stifling innovation, creating barriers for market entrants, and replacing Polish firms with “Brussels bureaucrats.” Rose argued Poland wins by building, scaling, and exporting technology, not becoming a compliance zone for foreign innovations. He contended a system that penalizes scale ensures dependence, not sovereignty.
Minister Replies to Musk
Gawkowski previously responded to Elon Musk, who praised the president’s veto with “brawo.” Gawkowski called the veto “a disgrace, not a victory,” stating Poland should protect citizens from digital threats rather than defend interests of those amplifying such threats. He criticized those valuing platform “toxic freedom” over societal safety.
President’s Veto for Digital Services Act
President Karol Nawrocki had vetoed the legislation, stating its provisions would introduce “administrative censorship” in Poland.