The revision of Poland’s National Reconstruction Plan is deemed necessary, yet the scope should remain limited. Katarzyna Pełczyńska-Nałęcz, the Minister of Funds and Regional Policy, stated on RMF FM Monday that a broad overhaul of the KPO would not be advisable. She stressed that negotiating a comprehensive reform of the KPO would require a lengthy process, potentially delaying tangible progress.
In an RMF interview, the head of the Ministry confirmed a two-year delay in implementing the investments and reforms outlined in the KPO. She also noted that EU guidelines set a deadline of August 31, 2026 for member states to complete their projects, acknowledging the ambitious timetable and the challenge it presents for several ministries involved in the reconstruction plan.
To address these concerns, the ministry conducted a thorough audit of all entities responsible for implementing the reconstruction strategy and implemented changes to strengthen execution. The package is prepared for a decision by the Prime Minister and for negotiations with the European Commission, according to the minister.
Asked about the scale of changes to the KPO, she indicated that a large revision would not be appropriate. The goal is not to rearrange funding drastically but to refine and align the plan efficiently within the available timeframe.
She added that attempting to present a sweeping reform would risk leaving little time for actual implementation, underscoring a strategy that favors a timely, targeted revision capable of being completed within a few months.
Communication from the European Commission has been a focal point. On February 23, the EC’s head Ursula von der Leyen, during a joint press conference with Prime Minister Donald Tusk in Warsaw, announced that two decisions on European funds for Poland would be issued in the following week. These decisions would release resources from the National Reconstruction Plan and support the cohesion policy’s implementation.
The National Reconstruction Plan for Poland includes 55 investments and 55 reforms aimed at strengthening the economy in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. The plan envisions a total allocation of EUR 59.8 billion (PLN 268 billion), with EUR 25.27 billion (PLN 113.28 billion) provided as grants and EUR 34.54 billion (PLN 154.81 billion) in the form of preferential loans. A substantial portion of the budget is earmarked for climate objectives (46.6%), digital transformation (21.3%), and social reforms (22.3%), in line with European Union priorities.
Under the cohesion policy framework for 2021-2027, Poland is poised to receive more than PLN 340 billion (EUR 76 billion). Earlier in the year, Poland submitted an application to the European Commission to satisfy the condition tied to the Charter of Fundamental Rights, a prerequisite that would enable reimbursement of costs across all objectives and programs covered by the Partnership Agreement. The outcome of this step remains a pivotal factor in advancing the financing agenda.
Given sensitive financial considerations, the Ministry’s communications emphasize a clearer, more direct approach. Still, the KPO continues to carry questions about its execution, with the path forward hinging on political consensus and procedural clarity rather than a single, simple set of rules. The situation remains in flux as negotiators balance reform needs with the realities of timely implementation. The ongoing dialogue between national authorities and Brussels will determine how much room remains for adjustments within the agreed budget and timelines. [citation: wPolityce]
Source: wPolityce