Digital Tools in Security Governance: Enhancing Public Participation and Deliberative Democracy - the case of Poland

Abstract

       Poland's rapid digital transformation reshapes democratic engagement in national security governance, offering opportunities and challenges. Despite expanding e-governance, digital identification, and consultation tools, barriers like unequal digital literacy and limited transparency hinder inclusive participation. This study, grounded in Habermas’ deliberative democracy theory, explores how digital tools can enhance accountability and public involvement in security decision-making. Using a mixed-method approach—expert interviews, student surveys at War Studies University in Warsaw, and analysis of policy documents and media—it reveals limited civic engagement despite widespread use of digital platforms for information access. Institutional trust, influenced by transparency, leadership, and media framing, remains moderate. Experts highlight the potential and limitations of digital deliberative mechanisms for democratic legitimacy. The study recommends developing secure, transparent digital platforms to improve public consultations in security policy-making. While Poland’s technological infrastructure supports digital inclusion, uneven participation underscores the need to strengthen capacities for genuine democratic co-creation in security governance.