Diia.pl: Navigating legal, technological and human rights dimensions of an electronic document for Ukrainian citizens in Poland

Abstract

The objective of the paper is to present legal aspects of the concept and method of implementing an innovative solution such as an electronic document for Ukrainian citizens in Poland (Diia.pl), including some problems that arise in this context. This document is one of the elements of the Polish response to the arrival of millions of Ukrainian citizens seeking protection against the effects of the Russian invasion of February 2022. The fundamental research question is to what extent Diia.pl should be considered solely through the prism of technology and administration techniques, and to what extent - through the prism of human rights – in the context of real guarantees of respect for them. The study is a continuation of the authors' prior work in the field of migration law and informatization of public services. Research is approached using the dogmatic-legal method; it also includes an analysis of statistical data and positions of various bodies and institutions, as well as problems observed in practice. The result is a diagnosis of challenges related to the use of electronic residence documents, in the context of political and social crises. This, in turn, implies the formulation of guidelines for countries wishing to introduce this type of solutions based on accumulated experience. Implications of the study are of great importance for academics, researchers and practitioners, that is lawmakers, border services, administration, employees and other entities. Considering forecasts of an increase in forced migration in the future, drawing appropriate conclusions from the use of Diia.pl may contribute to efficient responses to inevitable crises in the future and in that sense is of great value for different stakeholders.