In early March 2025, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, alongside Minister of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, announced a bold initiative aimed at strengthening the country’s national defense through the establishment of voluntary military courses for citizens. This initiative arises amidst growing concerns over security and the need for a robust military presence, with Tusk emphasizing the necessity for a half-million strong army. "Mówimy o potrzebie armii półmilionowej w Polsce. Kiedy patrzymy na liczby na realnym froncie walki..." he stated, highlighting the urgency of the government’s commitment to national defense.
The plans include two types of training courses designed to accommodate citizens looking to enhance their military readiness. The first, a series of short, introductory courses, will focus on pro-defense skills, ranging from first aid to crisis response techniques. These courses will vary in duration from one to three days and will not require participants to take an oath at completion, ensuring a low barrier for entry into military engagement.
According to Paweł Mateńczuk, a representative from the Ministry of National Defense, immersing individuals in a military environment will allow for better candidate assessment. "Myślę, że bycie w samym środowisku wojskowym, założenie munduru..." he commented, stressing the importance of candidates experiencing military life firsthand, rather than being plucked from civilian life with no preparation.
The second type of training will extend over thirty days, designed for those seeking to deepen their military skills. Participants in this program will have the opportunity to take an oath and subsequently join either the active reserve or apply as professional soldiers after completion. Notably, the entire initiative is geared towards individuals who are at least 18 years old, acknowledging that conflict scenarios do not discriminate by age or gender.
To further incentivize participation, the Ministry has proposed competitive earnings, with a salary offering of 6,000 zł brutto, and a net salary for participants under the age of 26. This move aims to encourage younger citizens to engage in training, which may also lead to opportunities for additional credentials, such as licenses for operating heavy vehicles.
Despite the government’s efforts to promote these voluntary military courses, public reception appears lukewarm. Recent surveys conducted by Opinia24 for RMF FM indicate that a significant majority of Poles are hesitant about participating in the training programs. Data reveals that only one third of respondents are willing to engage, with the most enthusiastic support emanating from supporters of the Third Way political coalition.
Further details about the military training program were reported by "Rzeczpospolita," which indicated that the initiative is specifically designed for citizens without prior military experience, along with a refresher course for veterans. The refresher course aims to refine existing skills and will include components such as fire training, medical rescue, and terrain navigation.
In a statement, Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz mentioned: "Planujemy mapę interaktywną, gdzie każdy będzie miał swojego przewodnika..." highlighting plans for an interactive map that will help participants to find and select the training best suited to their needs.
The government aims to have the comprehensive training outline ready by the end of March 2025, with Tusk noting, "do końca tego roku powstanie gotowy model szkolenia mężczyzn na wypadek wojny." This model is intended to ensure that the structure of military training is tailored to the specific needs of the populace, aligning with both readiness and inclusivity.
As the initiative unfolds, its potential to reshape civilian engagement in national defense will be closely monitored. The advisable approach by the government is twofold: it must build a training structure that not only meets military readiness but also connects with the broader public's willingness to participate. Without public support and interest, the ambitious goals set forth may face significant challenges in their realization.
