Problematyka kryminalizacji publicznego prezentowania symboliki totalitarnej na tle wykładni art. 256 k.k. i jego poszczególnych nowelizacji

The article defines the scope of criminalization of the public demonstration of totalitarian symbols in the context of the interpretation of Article 256 of the Polish Criminal Code. The author argues that the element of promoting a totalitarian system cannot be equated with the mere presentation of totalitarian symbolism. Difficulties in applying Article 256 §§ 1 and 2 of the Criminal Code result in an overly broad scope of penalization which, paradoxically, fails to ensure effective protection against the public display of such symbols, as intended by the legislator. The article also reflects on the actual need for separate criminalization of this conduct. The provision should protect a specific legal interest because of collision with freedom of expression and ambiguous symbols.