Involvement of Local Authorities
Deputy Prime Minister and Head of the Ministry of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz called for active participation from local authorities, leaders, and host countries to support strong civil defense. He highlighted the need for shelters, updates to construction laws, and clear population movement plans as essential components of homeland protection.
The head of the Ministry of National Defense and the Mayor of Warsaw, Rafał Trzaskowski, joined forces at a conference focused on urban shelters. Kosiniak-Kamysz stressed that homeland defense relies not only on a capable military and alliance commitments but also on robust civil protection measures for communities.
He described the local government community as a vital building block for protection and resilience, noting that it forms the foundation from which all progress grows. The emphasis was on making local governance the starting point for effective civil defense.
The message was clear: local governments and community leaders must actively support the development of strong civil protection and community safety. The Civil Defense Act is identified as a government priority, though it has not been implemented yet. When the Homeland Defense Act was enacted, the Civil Defense Act was repealed. Consultations are underway on the draft law addressing civil protection and related responsibilities.
Among the proposed actions are shelter construction, changes to construction regulations, and a precise delineation of responsibilities. Kosiniak-Kamysz indicated that joint exercises, including those conducted at schools, are necessary. He also announced that a training program covering first aid would be prepared in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, led by Barbara Nowacka.
Capital Security Program
Warsaw has launched the Warsaw Protects program, as announced by the city mayor. The initiative will cover shelters, additional water and electricity connections, and resident exercises, with funding allocated to support these measures. The total program cost is planned at 117 million Polish zlotys.
During a press conference with the defense minister, Trzaskowski stated that he had ordered the development of the Warsaw Protects program and that the next budget session would include a 117 million zloty allocation to enable crucial investments in the near future to prepare for any eventuality. The program envisions shelters with enhanced utilities, the creation of storage facilities including a flood warehouse, and the purchase of water tankers. It also includes the construction of new water intakes independent of existing networks and the establishment of additional water and energy connections for shelters.
The administration plans to consult with the government on evacuation site organization for residents and on hospital readiness for any scenario. An annual safety education week will feature resident participation and practical drills, such as first aid training. The intention is to equip the capital with adaptable resources that can be used across various crisis situations. The government will be consulted on the best approach to implementing these connections and protective spaces in new schools as well.
The mayor affirmed Warsaw’s readiness to invest and to procure equipment needed for a broad range of emergencies. He emphasized that these measures will empower the city to respond effectively and protect its residents.
The remarks also underscored that the current security situation is stable but that readiness remains essential. Trzaskowski noted that during recent visits by the Polish president and the prime minister to the United States, assurances were given about unwavering U.S. support for Poland. He stressed that national needs require ongoing preparation, and local governments must stay vigilant and proactive, especially in a climate of evolving threats.
Trzaskowski pointed to the challenges faced by local government in recent years, including the pandemic, migration pressures, and the climate crisis. He called for clear regulations on civil protection, a precise division of tasks, and targeted investments within the Warsaw program. He also highlighted the need for a precise definition of what constitutes a shelter and the steps needed to designate suitable refuges in the city. A review of potential shelter locations in Warsaw identified several large underused spaces, such as underground parking garages, subway facilities, and other underground structures, which could be adapted for safety use. The mayor indicated ongoing cooperation with the government to finalize civil protection regulations.
In discussing program financing, the mayor cited a question about the Supreme Audit Office report showing public confidence in emergency shelters. He clarified that some conclusions were based on definitions still under development by the government, making definitive answers difficult. Warsaw has identified seven million square meters of space that could serve as shelters, with experts suggesting two square meters per person. The outcome depends on the final definitions chosen for shelters and refuges.
The correct meaning of terms is crucial for planning. A shelter will be defined distinctly from a refuge, and final definitions are awaited to guide practical decisions. The approach has been to work on regulations and to advance preparation while awaiting formal definitions. The conversation about the project budget remains focused on Warsaw funds, though there is recognition that broader financial instruments will be essential for all local government bodies and their potential obligations.
Kosiniak-Kamysz praised Warsaw’s proactive involvement and noted that similar efforts are underway in smaller local government units across Poland. He emphasized that Warsaw’s actions set a high standard and reflect the mission of protecting local communities, with other towns implementing their own protective buildings and preparations that meet stringent standards. These efforts illustrate a national push to strengthen civil protection and community resilience. (Source attribution: wPolityce)
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