Poland's 'wGotowosci' Initiative
Poland has rolled out a massive civilian training program called wGotowosci (Readiness), designed to prepare 38 million residents for a potential military attack. Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz described this effort as the largest of its kind in the nation's history. The initiative comes amid the ongoing war in Ukraine and rising geopolitical tensions across the region. By the end of 2026, the goal is to train 400,000 individuals.
What the Program Covers
Open to everyone from schoolchildren to retirees, the program includes courses in:
- cybersecurity
- first aid
- survival in extreme conditions
Participants learn how to assemble emergency evacuation kits, purify water, and use everyday household items to survive. Training sessions take place at Territorial Defense Force bases, including the 13th Silesian Brigade in Cieszyn.
Poland's defense spending has climbed to 5% of its GDP, and the country's professional army has expanded to 215,000 troops—making it the third-largest in NATO. Lieutenant General Krzysztof Król of the Polish Army stated:
“They are testing us. They have made it clear: they are already waging war against us.”
The country is also procuring heavy equipment on a large scale, including tanks, missiles, and drones, underscoring its serious approach to national security.
The wGotowosci program is a direct response to growing global challenges, particularly the conflict between the U.S. and Iran, which has created a rift between President Trump and European leaders. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has driven up fuel and fertilizer prices, which could impact the regional economy. Additionally, the Polish government has distributed a 48-page emergency preparedness guide to every household, emphasizing the importance of civilian readiness for potential crises.
This initiative reflects the new security realities in Europe, where rising threats from neighboring states are pushing countries to strengthen both their defense and civil protection measures. Large-scale public training could become a key factor in ensuring national resilience against future challenges. Through these efforts, Poland is taking a systematic approach to bolstering its national security in light of current geopolitical pressures.
As Poland enhances its civil defense capabilities, it is also looking to bolster its military resources through advanced technology. The nation plans to establish a fleet of drones with support from Ukraine, highlighting a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening regional security. This initiative aligns with Poland's broader military objectives amidst escalating tensions. For more insights on this ambitious plan, read about how Poland aims to build a drone fleet with Ukrainian collaboration.