The AI Act Comes Into Force. Poland Has a Chance to Build the Regulator of the Future — But Time Is Running Out

The beginning of August marks an important milestone for artificial intelligence regulation in Europe. In line with the AI Act timeline, several key provisions have now entered into force — including those related to the obligations of general-purpose AI (GPAI) providers and the governance structures at both EU and Member State levels.

For Poland, this moment is a clear call to action.
Although work on the national law implementing the AI Act has been underway for months, we are still waiting for its finalization and — most importantly — for the appointment of a supervisory authority. It resembles the situation with the Digital Services Act (DSA) and shows that implementing EU digital regulations remains a challenge for Poland.

An Ambitious Vision That Needs Refinement

We appreciate the ambitious approach of the Ministry of Digital Affairs, which has chosen not to take the easy route (e.g., appointing an existing authority), but instead is attempting to build a specialized institution from scratch — the AI Development and Safety Commission. This is a bold and commendable vision: to create an expert body that truly understands this groundbreaking technology.

However, the devil is in the details, and time is running out. Despite several versions, the draft law still requires improvements to avoid the pitfalls that have been repeatedly pointed out during consultations — by both social partners and other ministries.

We Need a Partner, Not Just a Regulator

Poland has a unique opportunity to build a new kind of institution — not only a regulator, but above all, a partner and guide for businesses and citizens in the AI era.
In our discussions with the Ministry, we have repeatedly emphasized that the key to success is an authority that supports innovation, educates, and helps navigate complex regulations, rather than focusing solely on control and penalties. This is especially important for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are the backbone of our economy.

A Call for Swift and Smart Action

The absence of a national supervisory authority does not exempt businesses from complying with the AI Act, which is directly applicable.
However, it does create legal uncertainty and shows that ambitious goals — such as those outlined in Poland’s AI Development Strategy — require a competent and efficient state apparatus.

It’s time for concrete steps.
We urge for an acceleration of the legislative process and an open, inclusive dialogue, so that the final version of the law becomes a true catalyst for Poland’s digital economy.
Let’s seize this moment to create regulations that become our competitive advantage, not just another administrative burden.
A well-designed and innovation-friendly authority is an investment in the future of Polish innovation.

•This is the first entry in our “Comment of the Week” series — a regular space for us to share timely reflections on key developments in AI policy, innovation, and digital transformation across the CEE region. We’ll aim to publish a new comment every week, depending on how much is happening in the world of tech and regulation. Stay tuned!