Is Poland returning to the communist system?

 If you were planning to share a spectacular photo of a bridge in Poland on Instagram, you may want to rethink your decision. Recent changes in Polish law mean that such a photo may cost you a lot, even if you are just a tourist. And if you add an inappropriate comment to it, it may be considered "disinformation" and will soon result in 8 years in prison in Poland! The Polish government has reintroduced a photography ban.

A new act introduced on August 17, 2023, amending the Penal Code introduces a ban on photographing military facilities and other buildings, such as bridges or tracks. Although the purpose of this change is to combat espionage, some of the changed provisions are controversial among experts and citizens.

Government experts emphasize that such bans already existed during the Cold War, but were later deemed impractical. However, given the current international situation and growing tensions between the West and Russia, some of these provisions may become more relevant.

Importantly, the new regulations apply not only to military facilities but also to others that are important from the point of view of national security. In practice, this may mean that photographing even places such as Wawel or Sigismund's Column may be prohibited!

Lawyers draw attention to the "moving" list of objects that may be subject to the ban. This list is not publicly available, which may cause confusion and uncertainty among citizens.

If you break the new regulations, you may be fined, imprisoned or even lose the equipment you used to take the photo. The introduction of such punitive measures may be disproportionate to the potential act. Let's imagine a situation in which an expensive camera worth several thousand zlotys could be confiscated for taking a photo of a building with a background.

As a result, although the purpose of the act is to increase national security, its practical implementation may lead to numerous legal disputes and confusion for citizens. At a time when photography has become a common hobby and communication tool, it is important that legal regulations are clear and adequate to social reality.