The theory of legislative placebo at work: a case study of Poland’s legislative intervention during the COVID-19 pandemic

This article examines a novel approach in studies of symbolic politics and legislation, termed ‘legislative placebo’, through the lens of Polish legislative actions during the COVID-19 pandemic. It explores how legislators, despite recognising the flaws in proposed measures, may still enact legislation driven by motives other than those officially stated. The study uses regulatory impact assessment and explanatory memorandum for the Polish Coronavirus Specialist Law as key tools for understanding the intended versus real goals of legislative actions. By analysing a specific legislative intervention during the crisis, the article outlines the theoretical foundation of legislative placebo, investigates the context and development of selected legislation and evaluates how these measures work. Drawing on Poland’s legislative experiences from the COVID-19 era, these research findings aim to enhance the understanding of legislative placebo and suggest directions for future research.