Poland is introducing a new regulation concerning the evaluation of scientific publications, which, although technical in nature, could have substantial consequences for the academic publishing sector. This regulation particularly aims to address the growing concerns surrounding the quality and frequency of special issue publications, which have seen a surge in the academic landscape. Under the proposed system, the Committee for Evaluation of Science (KEN) will be empowered to lower the scoring of journals if they issue more special editions than their regular publication frequency allows or if the number of articles published in these editions exceeds those in standard issues.

The specific clause that has raised controversy is the proposed §17, which grants KEN broad authority to devalue the points awarded to scientific journals. This move is seen as a measure to curb the practice of inflating publication numbers, referred to as publication pressure, which often serves to enhance the financial returns of journals rather than fostering genuine scientific discourse. By instituting such regulations, the Polish government is positioning itself to maintain quality in scientific publications, potentially reshaping the dynamics of how research is disseminated within the country.

The implications of this regulation could be far-reaching, as it not only influences the way researchers approach publication - potentially discouraging the proliferation of less meaningful special issues - but also sets a precedent for future policies governing academic publishing in Poland. As academic institutions, researchers, and publishers navigate this new landscape, the balance between quantity and quality in research output will be a critical conversation in shaping the future of open science in Poland.