The fresh rules concerning the search for treasures rise heated discussions in the Polish Sejm. The changes scheduled for 1 May are to be abandoned – reports the diary of the Legal Gazette. The ruling coalition is expected to request the repeal of fresh regulations and the searchers are counting on presidential veto.
Draft fresh Regulations Repeal Act
A bill was published on the Sejm forum to repeal the Act of 13 July 2023 concerning amendments to the Act on the Protection of Monuments and the Care of Landmarks. The most discussed aspect of the change is the regulation concerning the conduct of amateur monument searches.
Political Breakdowns in the Context of Novelization
A group of MPs representing various groups, specified as the Polish People's organization – 3rd Road, Civic Coalition, Poland 2050 and non-attached, signed the draft law on repealing fresh regulations. In their view, the amendment aimed primarily at liberalising the principles of treasure exploration utilizing modern method and electronic devices alternatively than expanding the safety of cultural heritage.
In practice, these changes mainly concern people utilizing metallic detectors who search underground or underwater metallic monuments and weapons from various historical periods. The fresh regulations would exclude these areas from amateur searches, which was met with discontent from those active in this form of hobby.
Arguments in favour of repealing the fresh Rules
In the explanatory memorandum of the draft law on the repeal of the fresh provisions late tabled, it was stressed that the cost of implementing the amendment of July 2023 would be crucial and would exceed billions of PLN. It besides added that amateur treasure searches are a global phenomenon that can support research, but should be controlled by conservation offices to avoid harm to cultural heritage.
The discussion on fresh rules on treasure exploration addresses crucial issues related to cultural heritage. Robbing and destroying archaeological sites has irreversible consequences for national heritage and prevents research. The introduction of fresh rules may be crucial for the protection of Polish cultural heritage and the sustainable improvement of forms of treasure exploration.
In Poland, the search for treasures involves hundreds of thousands of people and is an crucial component of the country's cultural heritage. The debate in the Sejm on changes to the rules governing these actions underlines the complexity and importance of this subject. Regardless of the decisions to be taken, it is crucial to find a balance between the protection of cultural heritage and the anticipation of conducting amateur treasure searches.
Ignacy Michałowski
OSINT investigator with experience in global journalism projects. It has been publishing materials for over 20 years for the largest releases. In social activities he engaged in various projects and initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life of people, especially those of mediocre communities. He was besides active in the fight for human rights. Contact: kontakt@legaartis.pl
