On January 1, the majority of provisions of the new Civil Protection and Civil Defense Act came into force. Created by the Ministry of Interior and Administration (MSWiA) and the Ministry of National Defense (MON), the legislation aims to establish a robust system for responding to various threats during both peacetime and wartime. However, experts note that this legal framework is just the first step, requiring practical implementation and public education. Civil protection and defense will be a priority for Poland’s presidency in the EU in the area of internal affairs.
“This is the first such document in Poland in many years aimed at preparing society for all types of threats. It also uniquely addresses societal resilience for the first time in Polish law,” said Ambassador Krzysztof Paturej, president of the International Centre for Chemical Safety and Security (ICCSS), in an interview with Newseria.
A Milestone for Public Safety
Signed into law by President Andrzej Duda on December 17, 2024, the act took effect at the start of 2025. Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz described it as one of the most significant and groundbreaking pieces of legislation for national security in recent years. The act’s primary goal is to create a safe and resilient civilian environment capable of responding to military and non-military threats during peacetime and war.
The legislation outlines responsibilities for civil protection and defense, designates the entities responsible for these tasks, and establishes rules for planning, financing, threat detection, warning, and alert systems. A key feature is its flexibility: the civil protection system can transition to a civil defense system in the event of war.
Under the new law, the Minister of Interior and Administration will also serve as the head of civil defense. This elevation underscores the government’s prioritization of civil defense efforts. Local governments will be required to prepare evacuation plans for ensuring the safety of citizens in crisis scenarios.
Strengthening Local and National Capacities
“The new law equips local governments with the tools and competencies to support their communities in building resilience against threats. Previously, these responsibilities were fragmented and largely concentrated at the state level, often resulting in delayed responses during crises. This act is innovative because it involved NGOs and community organizations in its development, enabling broader participation in creating local safety measures,” said Ambassador Paturej.
The act mandates the creation and maintenance of shelters and temporary refuges for the population and ensures significant financial support for these initiatives. A Civil Protection and Defense Program will allocate at least 0.3% of GDP annually to finance these efforts.
Challenges in Implementation
Despite the law’s introduction, experts emphasize that practical measures and sufficient funding must follow. “Currently, only 3% of the population could access shelters in the event of war. These legal frameworks must translate into tangible actions and investments to enhance public safety,” noted Dr. Wawrzyniec Konarski, a professor at the Vistula University of Finance and Business.
The law leverages existing structures, such as the National Firefighting and Rescue System, crisis management bodies, emergency response systems, medical services, and NGOs. However, a crucial aspect will be fostering societal resilience, including preparedness for cyberattacks. Public awareness campaigns and education will play a pivotal role in minimizing the impacts of potential threats.
Building a Culture of Preparedness
“Civil protection requires us to prepare for even the most extreme scenarios. As noted by government officials, individuals are expected to sustain themselves for 72 hours in the event of war before external help arrives. This means we must rethink how we ensure personal safety, from having essential survival kits to understanding crisis protocols,” said Professor Konarski.
The Ministry of National Defense is developing a comprehensive guide to educate the public about modern threats and how to prepare for crises, including essential supplies and first aid knowledge. The guide, tailored for various age groups, is scheduled for release in April 2025.
Toward a Safer Future
The new legislation marks a significant step in enhancing Poland’s civil protection and defense capabilities. By integrating local and national efforts, prioritizing public education, and ensuring adequate funding, the law lays the groundwork for a safer, more resilient society. However, its success will depend on effective implementation and sustained commitment from all stakeholders.
