Advisory Council Presents Recommendations to Foreign Minister on Countering Disinformation in Poland-South Africa Relations

In a decisive move to combat the growing threat of disinformation, Poland’s Council for Resilience, established by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, has released a comprehensive set of recommendations aimed at strengthening the nation’s defenses against information manipulation campaigns.

The Council, which brings together representatives from social organizations, academia, industry, and public administration, has put forward 13 detailed recommendations focusing on systemic solutions, regulation of online platforms, support for civil society, building social resilience, and international cooperation.

Among the most urgent priorities is the swift implementation of European Union regulations, particularly the Digital Services Act (DSA) and the Artificial Intelligence Act, into Polish law. The Council emphasizes that full implementation would equip authorities and civil society with essential tools to counteract manipulation in the information environment.

The recommendations also call for stricter criminal law provisions targeting entities engaged in disinformation activities. Currently, the Council notes, most disinformation content remains legal under Polish law despite causing substantial social damage. Any legislative changes, however, should be carefully crafted to respect freedom of speech and avoid reinforcing narratives about alleged censorship of public debate.

A cornerstone of the proposed strategy is the adoption of a national framework to counter international disinformation. This would identify key sources and techniques of foreign disinformation, outline necessary countermeasures, and potentially recommend establishing an independent unit within the Prime Minister’s Chancellery to coordinate anti-disinformation efforts.

“Adopting a comprehensive strategy would boost efficiency and help better coordinate actions of both state and non-public entities in countering international disinformation,” the Council stated in its report.

The recommendations highlight the need to review the competencies and resources of public authorities involved in combating disinformation. This includes assessing organizational structures and devising solutions to harmonize institutional responsibilities and improve information flow between government bodies and the third sector.

Media outlets are recognized as crucial elements in the defense system against disinformation. The Council recommends increasing financial support for independent, professional, and pluralist media through funds and grants, citing similar successful approaches in countries like Estonia and France.

Special attention is given to very large online platforms (VLOPs), with the Council advocating for stronger government influence to protect users from misleading content. This includes ensuring platforms fulfill their commitments under the EU Code of Conduct on Disinformation and eliminating advertising revenue from misleading accounts and websites.

Civil society organizations engaged in prebunking, fact-checking, and monitoring disinformation are identified as key partners requiring increased support. The Council recommends that government institutions prepare a detailed report specifying the needs of these entities and provide appropriate funding and resources.

The development of domestic technological capabilities is emphasized as a strategic priority. The Council calls for significant public investment to stimulate the creation of specialized Polish companies and organizations developing advanced technologies for countering disinformation.

Educational initiatives form another crucial component of the recommendations, with proposals to include critical thinking and media literacy in school curricula from preschool through secondary education. Teacher training programs should also incorporate strategies for countering disinformation.

Public communication during disinformation incidents is identified as vital for building trust. The Council recommends that authorities work with reliable NGOs to inform the public quickly and clearly about dangerous disinformation campaigns, noting that rapid response is essential to building societal resilience.

On the international front, the Council prioritizes cooperation with NATO and the EU but emphasizes the importance of balanced collaboration with other partners given the scale of the threat.

The Council for Resilience is chaired by Tomasz Chłoń from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and includes 24 other members representing diverse sectors including universities, research institutions, business confederations, foundations, and media organizations.

This comprehensive approach reflects growing recognition across Europe of disinformation as a serious threat to national security, democratic institutions, and social cohesion.