Poland’s President Blocks EU-Aligned Censorship Move in Stand for Free Speech
Poland’s President Karol Nawrocki has officially vetoed a national law designed to implement the European Union’s Digital Services Act (DSA), effectively blocking a move that he argues would introduce “administrative censorship” and threaten free speech. The veto halts the legislation—already passed by the parliament—that aimed to grant state agencies new powers to regulate online content.
“Ministry of Truth” Warning
Nawrocki’s rejection of the bill was categorical. In a direct address, he warned that the legislation would hand government officials excessive power to decide what information citizens can access, comparing the proposed regulatory body to an Orwellian “Ministry of Truth.”
“The most effective way to take away freedom is not by banning speech, but by imposing a single, officially accepted version of reality,” Nawrocki stated. He argued that under the guise of safety, the law would allow state bureaucrats to arbitrarily remove content without sufficient judicial oversight or long-term safeguards for dissenting voices. By refusing to sign the bill, Nawrocki has stalled the appointment of “trusted flaggers” and the creation of a national coordinator responsible for enforcing EU content moderation rules.
Government and Expert Objections
The decision has sparked immediate backlash from the ruling coalition led by Prime Minister Donald Tusk, as well as from digital rights groups who argue the veto endangers Polish internet users.
Safety Concerns: Proponents of the bill contend that the DSA framework is essential for protecting minors from harmful content, such as cyberbullying and self-harm material, and for combating illegal commerce online.
Legal Recourse: Critics of the veto point out that the legislation was meant to give Polish citizens a legal pathway to appeal decisions made by Big Tech platforms. Without it, they argue, users are left at the mercy of arbitrary bans by Silicon Valley giants with no local recourse.
EU Consequences: The Ministry of Digital Affairs warned that the veto exposes Poland to significant financial penalties from the European Union. The European Commission has already initiated infringement proceedings against Poland for failing to implement the DSA on time.
Background and Political Context
The standoff highlights the deepening political rift in Poland between the pro-EU government and the conservative presidency. Nawrocki, who assumed office in 2025 with the backing of the right-wing Law and Justice (PiS) party, has frequently clashed with Prime Minister Tusk’s administration over issues of sovereignty and EU integration.
The Digital Services Act, which entered into force across the EU in 2024, requires member states to designate authorities to oversee compliance by online platforms. While intended to harmonize digital safety rules, the act has faced criticism from free speech advocates who fear it encourages platforms to over-censor content to avoid hefty fines. Nawrocki’s veto makes Poland a high-profile battleground in the global debate over the balance between online safety and freedom of expression.
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