Kontrowersje wokół nowelizacji ustawy o ochronie zabytków i opiece nad zabytkami w zakresie prowadzenia poszukiwań zabytków
Controversies surrounding the amendment to the Act on the Protection and Care of Monuments in the scope of searching for artefacts

Summary/Abstract: In 2023, a draft amendment to the Act on the protection and care of monuments was created, with the main goal to simplify procedures related to searches for artefacts. The amendment is meant to introduce a mobile application that can be used to notify the provincial conservator of monuments by a potential searcher about the area in which he would like to carry out searches. This greatly simplified procedure would replace the decisions currently issued by conservation offices in which they grant or refuse the applicant permission to conduct searches. It should be noted that such an application does not currently exist and its actual creation in the near future seems to be very problematic. The project’s assumptions also include provisions allowing for rewards in the form of a cash prize not only for accidental finders of archaeological monuments, as is the case now, but also for those who make such a discovery as part of planned searches. The project in progress was a parliamentary project inspired by the expectations of a large community of seekers. The project’s assumptions were met with a decidedly negative assessment by the expert community representing scientific and research institutions, museums and scientific associations. Despite these voices of opposition and numerous controversies that accompanied it, the project passed the legislative process and will enter into force in May 2024.

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