Since the war in Ukraine began, Poland has seen a notable rise in espionage activity, prompting calls for tougher penalties to bolster the country’s security. PiS MP Jarosław Krajewski spoke in the PAP Studio on Monday, arguing that stronger measures are needed to safeguard Poland amid evolving threats.
Higher penalties for espionage
The Sejm will hold a first reading of a draft amendment to the Penal Code proposed by the ruling party on the sessions from June 13 to 16. The proposal aims to tighten penalties for espionage and reinforce deterrence across the state apparatus.
Krajewski, who serves as deputy chair of the parliamentary committee on secret services and is the project’s rapporteur, told PAP Studio on Monday that the changes are essential to ensure greater security for Poland and to impose penalties that match the level of threat faced. He noted that since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, there has been a visible intensification of activity from the Russian Federation and from the Belarusian special services, underscoring the need for stronger safeguards.
Poland plays a pivotal role on the international stage today, including in humanitarian aid efforts and in its strategic geopolitical position supporting Ukraine in its struggle for independence, Krajewski added.
A test for the opposition
According to Krajewski, the life sentence for espionage proposed in the draft would have a preventive effect. The broader powers granted to secret services would also improve operational capabilities and enable more effective collection of evidence.
He framed the issue as a choice for the opposition. Either sides with security or sides with spies, leaving little middle ground. He expressed hope that opposition members would back these provisions that he believes are beneficial for national security.
According to the PiS proposal, individuals who participate in the activities of foreign intelligence services against Poland could face up to five years in prison. Providing information to foreign intelligence services that could harm the country would carry up to eight years or life imprisonment. Participation in disinformation activities by foreign intelligence services would be punishable by up to eight years. Acts of sabotage, diversion, or terrorism could lead to ten years in prison or life imprisonment. Those who organize or direct the activities of a foreign intelligence service would face up to ten years or life imprisonment.
Source: wPolityce