CDT Europe, along with thirteen civil society organizations, has addressed a joint letter to the Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union. The letter urges Poland to prioritize actions against the misuse of spyware. Poland is set to assume this rotating presidency in January 2025, a position that allows it to influence the EU's policy-making priorities.
The role of the presidency, which rotates among EU member states every six months, includes setting the Council’s agenda, chairing meetings, and representing the Council in negotiations with other EU institutions. This makes it a strategic opportunity for Poland to steer discussions on important issues such as spyware abuse.
Despite widespread recognition of the harm caused by spyware, significant action from the EU has been lacking. Recommendations from the PEGA Committee, which examined spyware use within member states, have not been thoroughly implemented. Additionally, there was little focus on these issues during recent hearings for new commissioners.
The coalition points out that spyware poses serious threats to fundamental rights, rule of law, and national security across Europe and beyond. It commends Poland for its national efforts to address these abuses through investigations into unlawful surveillance and increased transparency around spyware procurement and use. Furthermore, Poland has shown commitment by signing both the Joint Statement on Efforts to Counter Spyware Proliferation and Misuse and the Pall Mall Declaration.
Poland's presidency begins at a crucial time as it coincides with a new legislative mandate following Parliament’s confirmation of a new European Commission College. This timing provides an opportunity for Poland to lead comprehensive reforms regulating spyware technologies and enhancing safeguards and accountability.
The letter emphasizes key recommendations and advocates for collaboration between governments and civil society to translate commitments into effective policies. By prioritizing these reforms, Poland could position the EU as a global leader in combating spyware misuse while upholding fundamental rights and rule of law values.
